Mishma is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament as one of the sons of Ishmael, the firstborn son of Abraham and Hagar, Sarah's Egyptian maidservant. Mishma's name appears in genealogical records that trace the lineage and descendants of Ishmael, who is recognized as the progenitor of several Arab tribes.

Biblical References:

Mishma is specifically mentioned in the Book of Genesis, which provides a record of Ishmael's descendants. In Genesis 25:13-15 , the sons of Ishmael are listed: "These are the names of the sons of Ishmael, listed in the order of their birth: Nebaioth the firstborn of Ishmael, then Kedar, Adbeel, Mibsam, Mishma, Dumah, Massa, Hadad, Tema, Jetur, Naphish, and Kedemah."

Additionally, Mishma is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 1:29-31 , which reiterates the genealogy of Ishmael: "These are their genealogies: the firstborn of Ishmael was Nebaioth, then Kedar, Adbeel, Mibsam, Mishma, Dumah, Massa, Hadad, Tema, Jetur, Naphish, and Kedemah. These were the sons of Ishmael."

Historical and Cultural Context:

Mishma, along with his brothers, is considered one of the patriarchs of the Ishmaelite tribes. The Ishmaelites were a nomadic people who inhabited the region stretching from the northern Arabian Peninsula to the Sinai Peninsula. They played a significant role in the trade routes of the ancient Near East, often engaging in commerce and trade with neighboring peoples.

The name "Mishma" itself is thought to mean "hearing" or "obedience" in Hebrew, reflecting a common practice in biblical times of naming children with words that conveyed particular meanings or aspirations.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the mention of Mishma and his brothers underscores the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding Ishmael. In Genesis 17:20 , God assures Abraham, "As for Ishmael, I have heard you; behold, I will bless him and make him fruitful and multiply him greatly. He will be the father of twelve rulers, and I will make him into a great nation."

Mishma's inclusion in the genealogical records serves as a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises, even to those outside the covenant line of Isaac. The Ishmaelites, through their lineage, demonstrate the broader scope of God's providence and the unfolding of His plan for all nations.

Legacy:

While Mishma himself is not a central figure in biblical narratives, his legacy is intertwined with the history and development of the Ishmaelite tribes. These tribes are often mentioned in the context of their interactions with the Israelites and other neighboring peoples throughout the biblical narrative.

Mishma's place in the genealogical records highlights the interconnectedness of the biblical family tree and the diverse heritage that stems from Abraham, the father of many nations.Genesis 25:14
And Mishma, and Dumah, and Massa,
Nave's Topical Index

1 Chronicles 1:30
Mishma, and Dumah, Massa, Hadad, and Tema,
Nave's Topical Index

4927. Mishma -- an Ishmaelite, also a Simeonite
... Mishma. The same as mishma'; Mishma, the name of a son of Ishmael, and of an Israelite --
Mishma. see HEBREW mishma'. 4926, 4927. Mishma. 4928 . ...
/hebrew/4927.htm - 6k

Chapter xxv
... This is the history of Ishmael, the son of Abraham ... their generations: the first-born
of Ishmael Nebaioth; and Kedar and Abdeel and Mibsam, and Mishma and Dumah ...
//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xxv.htm

Who are the descendants of Ishmael? | GotQuestions.org

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