### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The term `{{H8664}}` (Tishbîy) functions as a gentilic or patrial adjective, signifying an inhabitant of a place called Tishbeh. According to the provided base definition, Tishbeh is an "unused name meaning recourse." This suggests that while the place name itself is not extensively detailed in scripture, its etymology might point to a concept of "seeking refuge" or "turning for help." Thus, `{{H8664}}` primarily denotes a geographical origin, specifically "the Tishbite," an individual from Tishbeh, a town located in Gilead. Its semantic range is therefore quite narrow, serving almost exclusively as a descriptor of origin.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H8664}}` appears exclusively in the Books of Kings and is consistently applied to one individual: Elijah the prophet.
* In [[1 Kings 17:1]], Elijah is introduced as "Elijah the Tishbite, of Tishbe in Gilead," immediately establishing his identity and geographical roots before he declares the coming drought to King Ahab. This initial mention highlights his origin from a region east of the Jordan, often considered more rugged and less central to Israelite religious and political life.
* Subsequent references, such as [[1 Kings 21:17]], [[2 Kings 1:3]], [[2 Kings 1:8]], and [[2 Kings 1:16]], consistently attach this epithet to Elijah, reinforcing his unique identity. For instance, in [[2 Kings 1:8]], when King Ahaziah's messengers describe Elijah's appearance, their description leads the king to exclaim, "It is Elijah the Tishbite!" This demonstrates that the epithet was an integral part of his recognized identity, perhaps even a distinguishing characteristic that set him apart from other prophets or figures of his time. The repeated use underscores that his origin, though seemingly obscure, was known and associated with his prophetic persona.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the place name "Tishbeh" itself, though it is not given a separate Strong's number or detailed description beyond its connection to Elijah. The broader geographical region of "Gilead" is also intrinsically linked, as Tishbeh is specified as being "in Gilead." This connection places Elijah outside the traditional centers of power and worship in Samaria or Jerusalem, potentially contributing to his image as an independent, divinely commissioned prophet.
Conceptually, `{{H8664}}` relates to other biblical gentilics (e.g., "Nazarene," "Bethlehemite") which identify individuals by their place of origin. In Elijah's case, it serves to ground a powerful prophetic figure in a specific, perhaps unrenowned, locale, emphasizing that God's instruments can arise from unexpected places. The suggested etymological root of "recourse" for Tishbeh could subtly connect to Elijah's ministry as one who called Israel to "return" or "have recourse" to Yahweh.
### Theological Significance
The designation "the Tishbite" carries significant theological weight, particularly in relation to Elijah's prophetic ministry.
1. **Divine Calling from Obscurity:** Elijah's identity as "the Tishbite from Tishbe in Gilead" underscores God's sovereign choice to raise up His prophets from unexpected places. Gilead was a frontier region, not a renowned center of learning or prophecy. This emphasizes that God's anointing is not limited by human expectations, social status, or geographical prominence. It highlights that God's power and word originate with Him alone, not from any human institution or locale.
2. **Authenticity and Authority:** Despite his obscure origins, Elijah speaks with unparalleled authority, confronting kings and challenging idolatry. His "Tishbite" identity may have even enhanced his prophetic credibility, portraying him as a wild, untamed figure, uncompromised by the corrupt religious and political structures of the northern kingdom. His authority derived directly from Yahweh, not from any established prophetic guild or royal patronage.
3. **Symbol of Prophetic Power:** Elijah the Tishbite became the archetype of the powerful, uncompromising prophet who stood for Yahweh against all odds. His expected return in [[Malachi 4:5]] ("Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the great and awesome day of the Lord comes") further elevates the significance of "the Tishbite" as a symbol of restoration and divine intervention.
### Summary
`{{H8664}}` (Tishbîy) is a patrial term, meaning "the Tishbite," indicating an inhabitant of Tishbeh in Gilead. Its singular and exclusive use in the biblical text is to identify Elijah, the preeminent prophet of Israel during the Omride dynasty. This designation serves not merely as a geographical marker but carries profound theological implications: it highlights God's freedom to choose and empower His servants from unexpected and even obscure backgrounds, reinforcing the divine origin of prophetic authority. Elijah's identity as "the Tishbite" thus underscores the sovereign nature of God's calling and the authenticity of His word delivered through a prophet unconstrained by human conventions or expectations.
TRV