יְשִׁישָׁי

Jeshishai, an Israelite

Definition

Jeshishai is a proper name given to an Israelite from the tribe of Gad, as recorded in 1 Chronicles 5:14. The name itself means 'aged' or 'old man,' derived from the Hebrew root for an elderly person. In the biblical context, Jeshishai is listed as a son of Jahdo and a descendant of Abihail, situating him within a specific Gadite lineage. The single occurrence of this name serves primarily to document genealogy, with no other narrative or descriptive details provided about the individual.

Biblical Usage

This name is used exactly once in the Old Testament, in 1 Chronicles 5:14, within a genealogical list of the tribe of Gad. Its usage is purely for lineage documentation, identifying Jeshishai as part of the family of Abihail. There are no narrative contexts or patterns of usage beyond this single, administrative record.

Etymology

The name יְשִׁישָׁי (Yᵉshîyshây) is directly derived from the Hebrew noun יָשִׁישׁ (yâshîysh, H3453), meaning 'aged' or 'old man.' It is formed with the common Hebrew suffix '-ai,' often used in personal names. The root conveys the concept of advanced age and the associated wisdom or venerability.

Semantic Range

In ancient Israelite culture, names were often meaningful, reflecting characteristics, hopes, or circumstances. A name meaning 'aged' might have been given to express a hope for long life, to honor an elderly ancestor, or to denote wisdom and respect associated with old age. Recording such names in genealogies, as in 1 Chronicles, was crucial for establishing tribal identity, inheritance rights, and continuity within the covenant community.

זָקֵן (zâqên, H2205) — A more common term for an elder, often used for leadership roles, whereas יָשִׁישׁ (yâshîsh, H3453) emphasizes the physical state of being aged.

Word Details

Scripture References