Ishpah is a relatively obscure figure mentioned in the genealogical records of the tribe of Benjamin in the Old Testament. His name appears in 1 Chronicles 8:16, which is part of a larger passage detailing the descendants of Benjamin, one of the twelve sons of Jacob, also known as Israel. The name Ishpah means "he will be bare" or "he will be stripped," though the significance of this meaning in relation to his life or character is not detailed in the biblical text.

Biblical Reference:

1 Chronicles 8:16 : "Michael, Ishpah, and Joha were the sons of Beriah."

Genealogical Context:

Ishpah is listed as one of the sons of Beriah, who is a descendant of Benjamin. The genealogies in 1 Chronicles serve to establish the lineage and tribal affiliations of the Israelites, particularly focusing on the tribes of Judah and Benjamin. These records were especially important to the post-exilic community, as they sought to reestablish their identity and heritage after returning from Babylonian captivity.

Tribal Significance:

The tribe of Benjamin held a unique position among the tribes of Israel. It was the smallest tribe, yet it produced significant figures in Israel's history, including King Saul, the first king of Israel, and the Apostle Paul, originally known as Saul of Tarsus. The genealogical records, including the mention of Ishpah, underscore the importance of maintaining tribal identities and connections to the patriarchs.

Historical and Theological Insights:

While Ishpah himself is not a prominent figure in biblical narratives, his inclusion in the genealogical record highlights the meticulous care with which the chronicler documented the lineage of the tribes. This attention to detail reflects the broader biblical theme of God's faithfulness to His covenant people, preserving their lineage and fulfilling His promises through them.

The genealogies also serve to remind readers of the interconnectedness of the tribes and the shared heritage of the Israelites. Each name, including that of Ishpah, contributes to the tapestry of Israel's history, illustrating the continuity of God's plan through generations.

Cultural and Religious Context:

In ancient Israel, genealogies were not merely records of ancestry but were also vital for legal, religious, and social purposes. They determined land inheritance, tribal affiliation, and eligibility for certain religious roles. The chronicler's inclusion of Ishpah in the genealogical record of Benjamin underscores the importance of each family and individual in the unfolding account of God's people.

Conclusion:

Though Ishpah is a minor figure in the biblical narrative, his mention in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the tribe of Benjamin and the faithfulness of God in preserving His people throughout history.ISHPAH

ish'-pa (yishpah, "firm," "strong"): A man of the tribe of Benjamin, of the house of Beriah (1 Chronicles 8:16).

3472. Yishpah -- "He sweeps," a Benjamite
... 3471, 3472. Yishpah. 3473 . "He sweeps," a Benjamite. Transliteration: Yishpah
Phonetic Spelling: (yish-paw') Short Definition: Ishpah. ...
/hebrew/3472.htm - 6kIshpah (1 Occurrence)
...ISHPAH. ish'-pa (yishpah, "firm," "strong"): A man of the tribe of Benjamin, of
the house of Beriah (1 Chronicles 8:16). ...Ishpah (1 Occurrence). ...
/i/ishpah.htm - 6k

Joha (2 Occurrences)
... Joha (2 Occurrences). 1 Chronicles 8:16 and Michael, and Ishpah, and Joha, the
sons of Beriah, (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV). ...
/j/joha.htm - 7k

Ishod (1 Occurrence)

/i/ishod.htm - 6k

Ishpan (1 Occurrence)

/i/ishpan.htm - 6k

Beriah (10 Occurrences)
... NIV). 1 Chronicles 8:16 and Michael, and Ishpah, and Joha, the sons of Beriah,
(WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS NIV). 1 Chronicles ...
/b/beriah.htm - 10k

Beri'ah (10 Occurrences)
... inhabitants of Gath. (See RSV). 1 Chronicles 8:16 and Michael, and Ishpah,
and Joha, were the sons of Beriah. (See RSV). 1 Chronicles ...
/b/beri'ah.htm - 8k

Michael (16 Occurrences)
... NIV). 1 Chronicles 8:16 and Michael, and Ishpah, and Joha, the sons of Beriah,
(WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV). 1 Chronicles ...
/m/michael.htm - 16k

Ispah (1 Occurrence)
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ISPAH. is'-pa. See ISHPAH. Multi-Version
Concordance Ispah (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 8:16 And ...
/i/ispah.htm - 6k

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