יוֹשָׁפָט (yo.sha.phat)
yo.sha.phat
Joshaphat
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 Yôshāphāt, often rendered as Joshaphat or Jehoshaphat, carries the meaning "Jehovah judges." It appears only twice in the Hebrew Bible, both within the genealogical and administrative records of First Chronicles. The brevity of its biblical footprint contrasts with the significant roles held by the individuals who bear it, reflecting a name that signifies divine judgment or verdict.
Scripture identifies two distinct men with this name during the era of King David. One is listed among David’s mighty warriors in 1 Chronicles 11:43, highlighting his martial valor. The other serves as a priest and trumpeter in 1 Chronicles 15:24, indicating a role in worship and liturgical proclamation. This duality shows how the name was used for both military strength and sacred service.
The sources also note the name’s use as a place name, referring to a valley near Jerusalem associated with ultimate judgment. While the biblical text focuses on the individuals, the etymological weight of "Jehovah judges" connects these historical figures to the broader theological theme of God’s righteous rule over His people.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Joshaphat carries a simple but powerful meaning: "Jehovah judges." It appears only twice in the Hebrew Bible, yet it connects two very different roles within King David’s kingdom. One man is listed among the mighty warriors, showing strength in battle. Another serves as a priest blowing the trumpets before the Ark of the Covenant, showing devotion in worship.
This duality reminds us that God’s judgment and justice are not limited to one area of life. Whether we are serving in times of conflict or leading in times of peace, our lives reflect His rule. The name points to a God who sees all things clearly and acts with perfect fairness.
When we read these brief mentions, we are invited to trust that the same God who judges righteously also guides those who serve Him. It is a comfort to know that our efforts, whether in strength or service, are held within His sovereign care. May this truth bring you peace as you walk in your own daily duties.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ Joshaphat2×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וְ/יוֹשָׁפָ֖ט1×
- וְ/יֽוֹשָׁפָ֡ט1×
Key Verses
-
I Chronicles 11:43
Hanan the son of Maacah, Joshaphat the Mithnite,
This verse identifies Joshaphat as a mighty warrior, showing the name's association with military strength and valor.
-
I Chronicles 15:24
Shebaniah, Joshaphat, Nethanel, Amasai, Zechariah, Benaiah, and Eliezer, the priests, blew the trumpets before God’s ark; and Obed-Edom and Jehiah were doorkeepers for the ark.
Here Joshaphat serves as a priest blowing trumpets before the Ark, highlighting his role in liturgical worship and proclamation.