Ashbea is a relatively obscure figure mentioned in the genealogical records of the Old Testament. The name appears in the context of the descendants of Judah, specifically in the lineage of those who were craftsmen and artisans. The reference to Ashbea is found in 1 Chronicles 4:21, which states: "The sons of Shelah son of Judah: Er the father of Lecah, Laadah the father of Mareshah, the clans of the linen workers at Beth Ashbea."

Genealogical Context

Ashbea is associated with the descendants of Shelah, one of the sons of Judah. The genealogies in 1 Chronicles 4 provide a detailed account of the families and clans that descended from Judah, one of the twelve sons of Jacob, who was later named Israel. These genealogies serve to establish the tribal and familial lines that played significant roles in the history of Israel.

Craftsmanship and Artisanship

The mention of Ashbea is particularly notable for its association with the "linen workers at Beth Ashbea." This indicates that Ashbea was linked to a community or family known for their skills in linen production. Linen was a valuable and widely used material in ancient Israel, employed in clothing, priestly garments, and various ceremonial and domestic applications. The reference to linen workers suggests a specialized trade that contributed to the economic and cultural life of the community.

Cultural and Historical Significance

The brief mention of Ashbea in the genealogical records highlights the importance of craftsmanship and trade in the ancient Israelite society. Skilled artisans, such as those associated with Ashbea, played a crucial role in the development and sustenance of the community. The production of linen, in particular, was a significant industry, reflecting both the practical needs and the artistic expressions of the people.

Biblical Interpretation

From a theological perspective, the inclusion of Ashbea in the genealogical records underscores the comprehensive nature of God's plan and the value of every individual and family in the unfolding narrative of Israel. Each name and lineage, no matter how briefly mentioned, contributes to the larger account of God's covenant people. The artisans and craftsmen, like those of Beth Ashbea, remind us of the diverse gifts and talents bestowed by God for the service and enrichment of the community.

Conclusion

While Ashbea is not a prominent figure in the biblical narrative, the mention of this name within the genealogies of Judah provides insight into the social and economic fabric of ancient Israel. The reference to the linen workers at Beth Ashbea highlights the significance of trade and craftsmanship in the biblical world, illustrating the diverse ways in which God's people contributed to their society.Ashbea

(I adjure), a proper name, but whether of a person or place is uncertain. (1 Chronicles 4:21)

ASHBEA

ash'-be-a, ash-be'-a ('ashbea`): "The house of Ashbea," a family of linen-workers mentioned in 1 Chronicles 4:21. We might render beth 'ashbea` as their dwelling-place; nothing is known of such a place nor is this house of weavers referred to in any other place.

791. Ashbea -- "adjurer," an Israelite
... Ashbea. 792 . "adjurer," an Israelite. Transliteration: Ashbea Phonetic Spelling:
(ash-bay'-ah) Short Definition: Beth-ashbea. ... NASB Word Usage Beth-ashbea* (1) ...
/hebrew/791.htm - 6k

1004. bayith -- a house
... root Definition a house NASB Word Usage armory* (1), beneath (1), Beth-ashbea*
(1), Beth-togarmah* (2), between* (2), boxes (1), buildings (2), daughter (1 ...
/hebrew/1004.htm - 7k

Ashbea (1 Occurrence)
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ASHBEA. ash'-be-a, ash-be'-a ('ashbea`): "The house
of Ashbea," a family of linen-workers mentioned in 1 Chronicles 4:21. ...
/a/ashbea.htm - 7k

Beth-ashbea (1 Occurrence)
Beth-ashbea. Beth-ar'bel, Beth-ashbea. Beth-ashbe'a . Multi-Version
Concordance Beth-ashbea (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles ...
/b/beth-ashbea.htm - 6k

Beth-ashbe'a (1 Occurrence)
Beth-ashbe'a. Beth-ashbea, Beth-ashbe'a. Bethasmoth . Multi-Version Concordance ...
Beth-ashbea, Beth-ashbe'a. Bethasmoth . Reference Bible.
/b/beth-ashbe'a.htm - 6k

Ashbel (3 Occurrences)

/a/ashbel.htm - 8k

Lechah (1 Occurrence)
... the son of Judah: Er the father of Lechah, and Laadah the father of Mareshah, and
the families of the house of byssus-workers, of the house of Ashbea, (DBY). ...
/l/lechah.htm - 6k

Laadah (1 Occurrence)
... Er the father of Lecah, and Laadah the father of Mareshah, and the families of the
house of those who worked fine linen, of the house of Ashbea; (WEB KJV ASV ...
/l/laadah.htm - 7k

La'adah (1 Occurrence)
... Judah: Er the father of Lecah, and Laadah the father of Mareshah, and the families
of the house of those who worked fine linen, of the house of Ashbea; (See RSV ...
/l/la'adah.htm - 6k

Ladah (1 Occurrence)
... Er the father of Lecah, and Laadah the father of Mareshah, and the families of the
house of them that wrought fine linen, of the house of Ashbea; (See JPS). ...
/l/ladah.htm - 6k

Lecah (1 Occurrence)
... Er the father of Lecah, and Laadah the father of Mareshah, and the families of the
house of those who worked fine linen, of the house of Ashbea; (WEB KJV JPS ...
/l/lecah.htm - 7k

Er (8 Occurrences)
... Er the father of Lecah, and Laadah the father of Mareshah, and the families of the
house of those who worked fine linen, of the house of Ashbea; (WEB KJV JPS ...
/e/er.htm - 9k

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