חַשְׁמַן
wealthy
Definition
The Hebrew word חַשְׁמַן (chashman) appears only once in the Old Testament, in Psalm 68:31, where it is traditionally understood to refer to wealthy or powerful individuals, specifically 'princes' or 'nobles' as rendered in the KJV. The context of the verse—which speaks of nations bringing tribute to God in Jerusalem—suggests these are dignitaries representing Egypt and Cush, likely envoys of significant social and economic standing. Some modern scholars, however, debate whether the term might instead refer to a type of offering or tribute itself, given the parallel structure in the psalm. Despite this uncertainty, the dominant interpretation remains that of wealthy, high-ranking leaders.
Biblical Usage
This word is used only in Psalm 68:31. It occurs in a prophetic context where the psalmist envisions future submission of foreign nations to God, with Egypt and Cush sending their 'chashmanim' (plural) to Jerusalem. The usage is poetic and eschatological, depicting the homage paid by powerful foreign entities to the God of Israel.
Etymology
Derived from an unused Hebrew root likely meaning 'to be firm' or 'capacious in resources,' suggesting substance, firmness, or abundance. The connection to wealth or nobility stems from the idea of being well-established or resource-rich. Cognates in other Semitic languages support notions of strength or firmness, which culturally extended to social and economic stability.
Semantic Range
This rare term enriches the theme of God's universal sovereignty in Psalm 68, highlighting that even the wealth and power of great nations like Egypt and Cush will ultimately acknowledge and submit to Yahweh. It underscores the biblical vision of all peoples—represented by their most affluent leaders—bringing their treasures and allegiance to God's dwelling place, fulfilling prophecies of global worship (e.g., Isaiah 60:1-7).
In the ancient Near East, wealth and political power were closely linked; 'princes' or nobles were typically the elite who controlled resources and represented their people in diplomacy. The mention of Egypt and Cush—regions famed for their riches and might—emphasizes the magnitude of this submission. The cultural expectation was that tribute from such powers signified their recognition of a superior authority.
נָדִיב (nadiyb, H5081) — a noble or willing one, often emphasizing voluntary generosity or high status. שַׂר (sar, H8269) — a ruler, official, or captain, focusing on leadership or command rather than wealth specifically.
Word Details
How this works
Hebrew definitions are from Brown-Driver-Briggs (1906) and Strong's Exhaustive Concordance (1890), both public domain. BDB was groundbreaking for its era but reflects 19th-century assumptions about Semitic etymology. Modern scholarship (HALOT, DCH) has revised many entries. Use these definitions as a starting point for exploration, not as the final word on a term's meaning in context.
Full methodology & sources →