מְשׁוֹבָב (me.sho.vav)
me.sho.vav
Meshobab
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 Meshobab appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, identifying a specific individual within the genealogy of the tribe of Simeon (1 Chronicles 4:34). As a proper noun, it serves to anchor this person in the historical record of Israel’s tribal lineage during the period of the divided monarchy. The text provides no narrative details about his life or deeds; he is listed simply as a descendant.
Linguistically, the name derives from the root shuv, meaning "to return" or "turn back." Consequently, Meshobab carries the sense of one who is "restored," "returning," or potentially "backsliding." This etymological weight offers a subtle theological resonance for readers tracing the history of Simeon, a tribe often associated with marginalization in later biblical narratives. The name itself suggests a theme of return or restoration, even if the individual’s personal story is not recorded.
Because this entry occurs solely within a list of names, its primary function is genealogical rather than narrative. It connects the reader to the broader structure of Israel’s tribal identity without inviting further speculation. The brevity of the reference underscores how many faithful individuals are remembered only by name in Scripture, their significance lying in their inclusion within the covenant community.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Meshobab appears only once in Scripture, tucked into a list of descendants from the tribe of Simeon in 1 Chronicles 4:34. We know nothing of his daily life or specific deeds, yet his inclusion matters. It reminds us that God’s historical record values every member of His covenant community, not just those with famous stories.
Linguistically, the name relates to the root meaning 'to return' or 'restore.' This offers a quiet hope: even when our personal narrative feels brief or obscure in the grand sweep of history, we are part of a larger story of restoration. God remembers those who are often overlooked, anchoring them firmly in His lineage.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ Meshobab1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וּ/מְשׁוֹבָ֣ב1×