מֵשָׁא (me.sah)
me.sah
Mesha
N:N--LQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N--L
Word Overview
Mesha is a proper noun designating a specific geographical region mentioned only once in the Hebrew Bible, in Genesis 10:30. The name itself translates to "freedom," a meaning that adds a layer of cultural context to its identification as a location.
In the genealogical record of Noah’s descendants, this site marks one of the boundaries of the territory settled by the Joktanites as they expanded into Arabia. Its singular occurrence serves primarily to anchor the ancient migration narratives in tangible geography, defining the extent of early Semitic settlement rather than conveying a theological concept.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Genesis 10 maps out the spread of humanity after the flood, showing how families moved into new lands. The name Mesha appears in this list, marking a boundary for Joktan’s descendants. Though it is just one small point on an ancient map, it reminds us that God guides people to their homes with purpose.
Every location in Scripture has a story. This place shows how early groups settled and grew. It connects us to the history of faith, showing that our ancestors also sought places to live and worship. We are part of this long line of believers who trusted God’s leading.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- from/ Mesha1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- מִ/מֵּשָׁ֑א1×
Key Verses
-
Genesis 10:30
Their dwelling extended from Mesha, as you go toward Sephar, the mountain of the east.
This verse identifies Mesha as a boundary marker for the Joktanites, showing how their territory extended toward the eastern mountains.