### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼAshbêaʻ**, represented by `{{H791}}`, is the name of an Israelite. The name's base definition is an adjurer. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the scriptures, identifying a specific family line in the Old Testament.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical reference to `{{H791}}` is found in a genealogical record in 1 Chronicles. It is not mentioned in a narrative but as the head of a household within the lineage of Judah. The passage identifies "the families of the house of them that wrought fine linen, of the house of **Ashbea**" [[1 Chronicles 4:21]]. This context establishes that the house or family of **ʼAshbêaʻ** was known for a particular craft.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its only appearance provide a richer context for the house of **ʼAshbêaʻ**:
* `{{H4940}}` **mishpâchâh** (family): This word, defined as "a family, i.e. circle of relatives," is used to describe the house of Ashbea [[1 Chronicles 4:21]]. It denotes a clan or group of kindred people, a concept central to Israel's tribal structure [[Genesis 12:3]].
* `{{H1004}}` **bayith** (house): This term signifies a "family" or household. The passage refers to "the **house** of Ashbea," identifying a specific family lineage, much like Joshua's declaration, "as for me and my **house**, we will serve the LORD" [[Joshua 24:15]].
* `{{H5656}}` **ʻăbôdâh** (work): The house of Ashbea is associated with a specific **work** or service. The verse mentions those that "wrought" fine linen, linking this family to a skilled labor or trade [[1 Chronicles 4:21]]. This term can also describe the service of God [[2 Chronicles 31:21]].
* `{{H948}}` **bûwts** (fine linen): This specifies the craft of Ashbea's house. **Fine linen** was a valuable material, often used for priestly garments and in royal settings [[Esther 8:15]], indicating the family's work was of high quality and importance.
### Theological Significance
The inclusion of `{{H791}}` in the biblical record carries genealogical significance.
* **Preservation of Lineage:** The name **ʼAshbêaʻ** is part of the official genealogy of the sons of **Shelah** `{{H7956}}`, who was the son of **Judah** `{{H3063}}`. This places the family of **ʼAshbêaʻ** directly within one of the most prominent tribes of Israel [[1 Chronicles 4:21]].
* **Identity through Craft:** The house of **ʼAshbêaʻ** is uniquely identified by its specialized work with **fine linen** `{{H948}}`. This shows that family identity in ancient Israel was tied not only to ancestry but also to the skills and economic contributions of a household.
* **Head of a Family:** By naming "the house of **Ashbea**," the text suggests **ʼAshbêaʻ** was the founder or a notable patriarch of a specific family (**mishpâchâh** `{{H4940}}`) whose legacy was defined by their craftsmanship [[1 Chronicles 4:21]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H791}}` **ʼAshbêaʻ** is more than just a name in a list. Though mentioned only once, it provides a window into the structure of ancient Israelite society. Its appearance in the genealogy of Judah [[1 Chronicles 4:21]] preserves the memory of a specific family line, a "house," that was distinguished by its valued craft of producing fine linen, embedding its legacy within the tribal history of Israel.
TRV