### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼAshkᵉnaz**, represented by `{{H813}}`, identifies a Japhethite and his descendants. The name is of foreign origin and appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, establishing its presence in both genealogical and prophetic texts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H813}}` is used to establish a specific lineage. Both Genesis and 1 Chronicles identify **Ashkenaz** as one of the **sons** `{{H1121}}` of **Gomer** `{{H1586}}`, placing him within the lineage of Japheth ([[Genesis 10:3]]; [[1 Chronicles 1:6]]). Later, in the book of Jeremiah, the name refers to a national entity. The prophet calls for the **kingdoms** `{{H4467}}` of **Ararat** `{{H780}}`, **Minni** `{{H4508}}`, and **Ashchenaz** `{{H813}}` to be gathered and prepared for a military campaign [[Jeremiah 51:27]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the role and identity of Ashkenaz:
* `{{H1586}}` **Gômer** (completion): Ashkenaz is explicitly named as a son of Gomer, establishing his direct patriarchal line [[Genesis 10:3]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): This word is used to define the genealogical relationship between Gomer and his descendants, including Ashkenaz, Riphath, and Togarmah [[Genesis 10:3]].
* `{{H4467}}` **mamlâkâh** (kingdom): This term shows the development of the descendants of Ashkenaz into a recognized political entity, as it is listed among the kingdoms summoned for war [[Jeremiah 51:27]].
* `{{H1471}}` **gôwy** (a foreign nation): The summons in Jeremiah involves preparing the **nations** `{{H1471}}`, including the kingdom of Ashkenaz, for battle, identifying them as distinct peoples.
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H813}}` is seen primarily in its narrative function within the scope of biblical history and prophecy.
* **Genealogical Placement:** The name first serves to map the descendants of Japheth through his son Gomer, providing a specific branch in the Table of Nations ([[Genesis 10:3]]; [[1 Chronicles 1:6]]).
* **Prophetic Instrument:** In Jeremiah, Ashkenaz is no longer just an ancestor but a kingdom called by God to participate in His judgment against Babylon, demonstrating God's sovereignty over foreign nations [[Jeremiah 51:27]].
* **From Person to People:** The usage of the name illustrates a common biblical pattern where an ancestor's name comes to represent the nation or territory of his descendants, moving from an individual to a collective identity.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H813}}` **ʼAshkᵉnaz** provides a clear example of how a biblical name functions first as a genealogical marker and later as a national identity. Introduced as a son of Gomer in the Table of Nations [[Genesis 10:3]], the name evolves to represent a kingdom summoned by God for a prophetic purpose [[Jeremiah 51:27]]. While appearing only three times, its usage connects the early history of mankind to the geopolitical landscape of prophetic judgment.
TRV