יִשְׁבַּח

Jishbach, an Israelite

Definition

יִשְׁבַּח (Yishbach) is a proper noun referring to an Israelite individual mentioned in 1 Chronicles 4:17. The name appears in a genealogical list of the tribe of Judah, specifically as a son of Eshton. As a personal name, it carries the meaning 'he will praise,' derived from the Hebrew root for praise. In the biblical context, it serves solely to identify this specific ancestor within Judah's lineage, with no other recorded narrative or action associated with him.

Biblical Usage

This word is used exactly once in the Old Testament, in 1 Chronicles 4:17. It functions strictly as a personal name within a genealogical record. The context is the chronicler's listing of descendants from Judah, intended to establish lineage and tribal heritage. There are no patterns of usage beyond this single, identifying occurrence.

Etymology

The name יִשְׁבַּח is derived from the Hebrew root שָׁבַח (shavach, H7623), which means 'to praise,' 'to commend,' or 'to glory in.' It is a verb in the imperfect (future) form, giving it the sense of 'he will praise.' It is related to other words of praise like תְּהִלָּה (tehillah, H8416), meaning 'praise' or 'song of praise.'

Semantic Range

In ancient Israelite culture, names were often significant and descriptive, sometimes expressing a hope or characteristic about the person. A name meaning 'he will praise' likely reflected the parents' devotion or hope that the child would live a life honoring to God. While the individual himself is not prominent in the biblical narrative, his inclusion in the genealogy of Judah connects him to the messianic line, as the promise of the Messiah came through this tribe (Genesis 49:10).

שָׁבַח (shavach, H7623) — the verbal root meaning 'to praise.' תְּהִלָּה (tehillah, H8416) — a noun meaning 'praise' or a 'song of praise,' often used in worship contexts.

Word Details

Scripture References