Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning The name Jeshishai is of Hebrew origin, and its meaning is often understood to be "ancient" or "aged." This name reflects a common practice in biblical times of naming individuals in a way that conveys a particular characteristic or familial significance. Biblical References Jeshishai is mentioned in the genealogical records of the tribe of Gad, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The specific reference to Jeshishai can be found in 1 Chronicles 5:14, which states: "These were the sons of Abihail: the son of Huri, the son of Jaroah, the son of Gilead, the son of Michael, the son of Jeshishai, the son of Jahdo, the son of Buz" . This passage situates Jeshishai within a lineage that traces back to notable ancestors, emphasizing the importance of heritage and family connections in the biblical narrative. Tribal Context The tribe of Gad, to which Jeshishai belonged, was one of the tribes that settled on the eastern side of the Jordan River. This tribe was known for its warrior-like qualities and played a significant role in the military campaigns of Israel. The genealogical records in 1 Chronicles serve to highlight the continuity and faithfulness of the tribes of Israel, even those residing outside the central land of Canaan. Historical and Theological Significance While Jeshishai himself is not a prominent figure in biblical narratives, his inclusion in the genealogical records underscores the importance of each member within the tribes of Israel. These records were meticulously maintained to preserve the history and identity of the people of Israel. From a theological perspective, the genealogies in the Bible serve to demonstrate God's faithfulness to His covenant people, ensuring that each tribe and family is remembered and accounted for in the unfolding account of redemption. Cultural and Religious Context In the ancient Near Eastern context, genealogies were not merely lists of names but were vital for establishing legal rights, inheritance, and tribal affiliation. For the Israelites, these records were also a testament to God's providence and the fulfillment of His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Jeshishai's mention, though brief, is part of this larger tapestry that connects individual lives to the grand narrative of God's dealings with His chosen people. Conclusion The entry for Jeshishai, while limited in detail, provides insight into the broader context of Israel's tribal history and the significance of genealogical records in the biblical tradition. Through these records, the Bible affirms the value of each individual within the community of faith and the enduring legacy of God's covenant with His people. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary Jeshishaiancient; rejoicing exceedingly Smith's Bible Dictionary Jeshishai(descended from an old man), one of the ancestors of the Gadites who dwelt in Gilead. (1 Chronicles 5:14) International Standard Bible Encyclopedia JESHISHAIje-shish'-a-i (yeshishay, "aged"): A Gadite chief (and family?) (1 Chronicles 5:14). Strong's Hebrew 3454. Yeshishay -- a Gileadite... 3453, 3454. Yeshishay. 3455 . a Gileadite. Transliteration: Yeshishay Phonetic Spelling: (yesh-ee-shah'-ee) Short Definition: Jeshishai. ... Jeshishai. ... /hebrew/3454.htm - 6k Thesaurus Jeshishai (1 Occurrence)...JESHISHAI. je-shish'-ai (yeshishay, "aged"): A Gadite chief (and family?) (1 Chronicles 5:14). Multi-Version Concordance Jeshishai (1 Occurrence). ... /j/jeshishai.htm - 7k Jeshish'ai (1 Occurrence) Jehishai (1 Occurrence) Jaroah (1 Occurrence) Jeshimoth (4 Occurrences) Jahdo (1 Occurrence) Buz (3 Occurrences) Abihail (6 Occurrences) Ab'ihail (6 Occurrences) Michael (16 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Jeshishai (1 Occurrence)1 Chronicles 5:14 Subtopics Related Terms |
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