יִשְׁפָּן

Jishpan, an Israelite

Definition

Yishpân (Jishpan) is a proper name referring to a specific individual mentioned in the Old Testament. He is listed as a son of Shashak, a Benjamite, within a genealogical record of the tribe of Benjamin (1 Chronicles 8:22). The name appears only in this context, and no other details about his life, actions, or significance are provided in the biblical text. As such, the entry serves primarily as a historical record of lineage within the tribe of Benjamin following the exile.

Biblical Usage

This word is used exactly once in the Old Testament, in 1 Chronicles 8:22. Its usage is strictly genealogical, appearing in a list of Benjamite descendants. There are no narrative contexts or patterns of usage beyond this single occurrence in a post-exilic chronicle.

Etymology

The name Yishpân (יִשְׁפָּן) is likely derived from the root שָׁפַן (shaphan, H8227), meaning 'to hide' or 'conceal.' It is probably a verbal form meaning 'he will hide' or 'he hides.' This suggests the name carried a meaning related to protection or concealment, a common theme in Hebrew naming conventions.

Semantic Range

In ancient Israelite culture, names were often significant and descriptive. A name like Yishpân ('he will hide') may have expressed a parent's hope for divine protection for their child or reflected circumstances surrounding his birth. Its inclusion in a post-exilic genealogy (1 Chronicles 8) highlights the importance of preserving tribal and family lineages as a core part of Israel's identity and connection to God's promises, even after the disruption of the exile.

Word Details

Scripture References