יִשְׁפָּן (yish.pan)
yish.pan
Ishpan
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Ishpan appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, recorded in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles 8:22. It identifies a specific individual within the tribe of Benjamin during the era of the Divided Monarchy. As part of the family line of Shashak, Ishpan is listed among several brothers, including Eber and Eliel, anchoring his identity firmly in tribal heritage rather than public deeds.
Linguistically, the name translates to "he hides." This etymology offers a quiet contrast to the more prominent figures often celebrated in biblical narratives. While many names in Scripture reflect strength or divine intervention, Ishpan’s meaning suggests concealment or modesty. Its single occurrence serves as a reminder that the biblical record preserves not only leaders and prophets but also ordinary members of Israel’s community.
The rarity of this entry highlights how genealogical lists function as historical anchors. By recording names like Ishpan, the text validates the continuity of the tribe of Benjamin through generations. These details affirm the significance of lineage in ancient Israelite society, ensuring that even those with minimal visibility remain part of the broader covenant story.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Ishpan appears in a single verse, anchoring us to the quiet reality of family history. Listed among brothers in the tribe of Benjamin, this entry reminds us that God’s story includes ordinary people alongside famous leaders. The meaning 'he hides' suggests a life lived without public fanfare, yet fully recorded in Scripture.
This genealogical detail offers comfort for those who feel unseen. Just as Ishpan was preserved in the covenant lineage, every believer is known and valued by God. Your faithfulness in daily life matters deeply to Him, even when it goes unnoticed by the world. The Bible honors these hidden lives as essential parts of His larger plan.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ Ishpan1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וְ/יִשְׁפָּ֥ן1×
Key Verses
-
I Chronicles 8:22
Ishpan, Eber, Eliel,
This verse lists Ishpan among his brothers, showing how genealogies preserve the identity of ordinary tribe members within Israel's covenant community.