עַלְיָן, עַלְוָן (al.van)
al.van
Alvan
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 proper noun alvan refers to a specific individual in the biblical genealogies, identified as a Horite living during the era of the Patriarchs. He appears first in Genesis 36:23 and again in 1 Chronicles 1:40 as a son of Shobal and brother to Manahath, Ebal, Shepho, and Onam. These brief mentions serve to document the lineage of Edom’s early inhabitants.
Lexical sources note that the name likely means "tall," suggesting a physical characteristic or perhaps a familial nickname that became hereditary. Although the word occurs only twice in Scripture, its placement in these detailed family records highlights the importance of tracing tribal ancestry and establishing the historical context of the regions surrounding Israel.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Names like Alvan might seem obscure at first glance, appearing only in brief genealogical lists. Yet these records remind us that God cares about individual identities, even those mentioned in passing. The Bible preserves the names of people who lived thousands of years ago, showing that no one is forgotten in His grand narrative.
When we read about Alvan as a son of Shobal and brother to others like Ebal and Onam, we see the importance of family lineage in biblical times. These connections were not just social markers but spiritual anchors, linking generations together in a shared history. This attention to detail encourages us to value our own place in the community of faith and to honor the heritage passed down to us.
Whether you are tracing your own family tree or simply reflecting on the vastness of God's creation, these verses invite a sense of peace. They show that every person has a story, and every name has a purpose in the unfolding of Scripture. We can find comfort in knowing that God remembers each one.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Alyan1×
- Alvan1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- עַלְיָ֧ן1×
- עַלְוָ֥ן1×
Key Verses
-
Genesis 36:23
These are the children of Shobal: Alvan, Manahath, Ebal, Shepho, and Onam.
This verse lists Alvan as one of Shobal's children, establishing his place within the Horite lineage and highlighting the specific familial connections recorded in Edom's history.
-
I Chronicles 1:40
The sons of Shobal: Alian, Manahath, Ebal, Shephi, and Onam. The sons of Zibeon: Aiah and Anah.
The chronicler repeats this genealogy to confirm the continuity of Israel's historical records, showing that Alvan remains a recognized figure in the post-exilic understanding of tribal ancestry.