אִבְצָן (iv.tsan)
iv.tsan
Ibzan
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Ibzan refers to a judge of Israel mentioned only twice in the Book of Judges. The Hebrew word אִבְצָן (iv.tsan) is a proper noun, and its meaning is tied directly to this historical figure rather than a common verb or abstract concept.
Lexical sources indicate that the name likely means "their whiteness" or "their tin," referencing the bright, shiny quality of the metal. This etymology suggests a personal identity linked to brightness or value, though the text itself focuses on his role as a leader from Bethlehem during the period before the monarchy.
Ibzan appears in Judges 12:8-10, where he is noted for having thirty sons and thirty daughters, arranging marriages to expand his family’s influence. His brief mention serves as a historical marker in the list of judges, highlighting the social structures of that era without offering further theological commentary on his life.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Ibzan is a name that appears only twice in Scripture, yet it anchors us to a specific moment in Israel’s history. His story reminds us that God uses ordinary people from ordinary towns like Bethlehem to lead His people. We do not know the full details of his heart or his prayers, but we see him faithfully serving as a judge during a turbulent time.
This brevity invites us to trust God’s larger narrative. He does not need every character in the Bible to be fully fleshed out for us to see His hand at work. Even when history seems fragmented, God is weaving together families and communities according to His purpose. We can find comfort in knowing that our own small acts of faithfulness are seen and remembered by Him.
Let this encourage you in your daily walk. You do not need a grand stage to matter to God. Whether you are leading a community or nurturing a family, your life contributes to the story He is writing. Rest in the assurance that He values your presence and uses your steps for His good purposes.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Ibzan2×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- אִבְצָ֖ן1×
- אִבְצָ֔ן1×
Key Verses
-
Judges 12:8
After him Ibzan of Bethlehem judged Israel.
This verse establishes Ibzan’s authority and location, showing how God raised leaders from specific towns to guide Israel during times of disorder.
-
Judges 12:10
Ibzan died, and was buried at Bethlehem.
The record of his burial in Bethlehem connects his life to the land and highlights the continuity of family lines within Israel’s history.