נַחְשׁוֹן (nach.shon)
nach.shon
Nahshon
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 9 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
Nahshon is a proper name found nine times in the Hebrew Bible, primarily within genealogical records in Numbers and Ruth, as well as in 1 Chronicles. He is identified as a prince of the tribe of Judah and the son of Amminadab. The sources note that his name appears in the Greek New Testament as Naassōn, linking him to the lineage of Jesus Christ.
Etymologically, the name is often interpreted to mean "enchanter." This definition adds an interesting layer to his identity, though the biblical text itself focuses on his role as a leader and ancestor rather than any magical practice. He is listed fifth in descent from Judah, establishing his place in the royal line.
His most significant narrative contribution appears in Exodus 15:27 and Numbers 1:7, where he is named as the leader of Judah during the wilderness census. In Ruth 4:20-21, he serves as a crucial link between Perez and David, highlighting his importance in the ancestral chain that leads to the Messiah.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Nahshon appears in Scripture not as a central hero with dramatic speeches, but as a steady pillar within the lineage of Judah. His name, often linked to meanings like 'enchanter,' stands in quiet contrast to his actual biblical role: a faithful leader and ancestor. In the wilderness census, he is named as the prince of Judah, leading his tribe with dignity and responsibility. This reminds us that God values faithfulness in ordinary roles just as much as in spectacular miracles.
His significance deepens when we see him woven into the genealogy of Jesus Christ in the book of Ruth. As the father of Salmon and grandfather of Boaz, Nahshon is a crucial link in the chain that leads to David and ultimately to the Messiah. This connection shows how God uses ordinary family lines and faithful ancestors to accomplish His grandest plans. We can take comfort knowing that our own lives, however seemingly small, are part of God's ongoing story.
When we read about Nahshon, we are invited to trust that God is working through generations. He does not discard the quiet contributors; He honors them. Whether you feel like a leader or a background figure, your place in God’s family is secure and meaningful. May you find peace in knowing that your faithfulness, however hidden, is seen and valued by Him.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 9 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Nahshon6×
- and/ Nahshon2×
- [was] Nahshon2×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- נַחְשׁ֖וֹן5×
- נַחְשׁ֔וֹן2×
- נַחְשׁ֥וֹן1×
- וְ/נַחְשׁוֹן֙1×
- וְ/נַחְשׁ֖וֹן1×
Key Verses
-
Numbers 1:7
Of Judah: Nahshon the son of Amminadab.
This verse establishes Nahshon’s official role as the appointed leader of the tribe of Judah during the wilderness census.
-
Ruth 4:20
and Amminadab became the father of Nahshon, and Nahshon became the father of Salmon,
Here Nahshon serves as a critical genealogical bridge, connecting the era of the Judges to the lineage of King David and Jesus.
-
Numbers 7:12
He who offered his offering the first day was Nahshon the son of Amminadab, of the tribe of Judah,
Nahshon is recorded as the first tribe leader to offer gifts at the dedication of the altar, highlighting his position of honor among the princes.