### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Tôchûw**, represented by `{{H8459}}`, is defined as **abasement** and is used as the proper name **Tochu** or **Tohu**. Derived from an unused root meaning to depress, this term is exceptionally rare. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical appearance of `{{H8459}}` is within a genealogy. In [[1 Samuel 1:1]], the word identifies an Israelite named **Tohu** as an ancestor of Elkanah. The verse establishes a direct lineage, stating that Elkanah was "the son of Jeroham, the son of Elihu, the son of **Tohu**, the son of Zuph." In this context, **Tohu** functions solely as a proper name to mark a specific individual in a family line from mount Ephraim.
### Related Words & Concepts
The lineage in which `{{H8459}}` appears connects it to several other key individuals and the concept of ancestry:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): This word is the structural link in the genealogy, used repeatedly to connect each generation from Zuph to Elkanah [[1 Samuel 1:1]]. Its broader use emphasizes passing down heritage, as seen in the command to teach "thy sons, and thy sons' sons" [[Deuteronomy 4:9]].
* `{{H3395}}` **Yᵉrôchâm** (compassionate; Jerocham): The great-grandson of Tohu and the father of Elkanah [[1 Samuel 1:1]].
* `{{H453}}` **ʼĔlîyhûw** (God of him; Elihu): The grandson of Tohu and the son of Jeroham [[1 Samuel 1:1]].
* `{{H6689}}` **Tsûwph** (honey-comb; Tsuph): The father of Tohu, making him the earliest ancestor named in this specific lineage [[1 Samuel 1:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H8459}}` is not derived from its definition but from its contextual function in scripture.
* **Genealogical Importance:** The primary purpose of naming **Tohu** is to establish a verifiable ancestry for Elkanah, an Ephrathite [[1 Samuel 1:1]]. This underscores the biblical value placed on lineage and heritage.
* **Foundational Ancestor:** As a forefather in this line, **Tohu** serves as a foundational link in the history of a specific Israelite family. The meticulous recording of such names demonstrates the importance of each individual within the larger narrative of the people of Israel.
* **Root Meaning:** The name itself is defined as "abasement," derived from a root word meaning "to depress." While used as a proper name, its etymology ties the individual to the concept of being brought low or humbled.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8459}}` **Tôchûw** is a term whose significance is tied entirely to its singular use as a name within a genealogy. Appearing only in [[1 Samuel 1:1]], it identifies **Tohu** as an ancestor of Elkanah. Its importance lies not in frequent use or complex theological definition, but in its role as a marker of identity and lineage, illustrating the careful preservation of ancestral records in the biblical text.
TRV