Joshah
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Joshah is a lesser-known figure in the genealogical records of the Old Testament, specifically mentioned in the context of the tribe of Simeon. His name, which can be interpreted to mean "Jehovah gives" or "whom Jehovah bestows," reflects the theocentric nature of Hebrew naming conventions, emphasizing the belief in divine providence and blessing.

Biblical References:

Joshah is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 4:34, within a genealogical listing that provides insight into the descendants of Simeon. The passage reads: "Meshobab, Jamlech, Joshah the son of Amaziah" . This brief mention situates Joshah within the broader narrative of the tribes of Israel, specifically highlighting his lineage through Amaziah.

Tribal Context:

The tribe of Simeon, to which Joshah belongs, is one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Simeon, the second son of Jacob and Leah. Historically, the tribe of Simeon is noted for its integration with the tribe of Judah, as their allotted territory was within the boundaries of Judah's inheritance. This close association often led to the tribe of Simeon being overshadowed in the biblical narrative, with fewer prominent figures emerging from its ranks compared to other tribes.

Genealogical Significance:

The genealogies in 1 Chronicles serve several purposes, including the establishment of tribal identities, the validation of land claims, and the preservation of family heritage. Joshah's inclusion in these records, though brief, underscores the importance of lineage and heritage in the Israelite community. It also reflects the chronicler's intent to document the continuity of God's people through successive generations.

Historical and Theological Implications:

While Joshah himself does not play a significant role in the biblical narrative, his mention contributes to the broader understanding of Israel's history and the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs. The genealogies in which he appears are a testament to the faithfulness of God in preserving His people and maintaining the lineages through which He would ultimately bring about His redemptive purposes.

Cultural and Religious Context:

In the ancient Near Eastern context, genealogies were crucial for maintaining social structure and religious identity. For the Israelites, these records were not merely historical documents but were imbued with theological significance, affirming their identity as God's chosen people. Joshah's place within this framework, though minor, is part of the larger tapestry of Israel's account, which is characterized by a deep reliance on divine guidance and provision.

In summary, while Joshah may not be a prominent figure in the biblical narrative, his mention in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles highlights the importance of every individual within the covenant community of Israel. His inclusion serves as a reminder of the intricate and interconnected history of God's people, woven together by divine purpose and promise.
Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary
Joshah

being; forgetting; owing

Smith's Bible Dictionary
Joshah

(whom Jehovah lets dwell), a prince of the house of Simeon. (1 Chronicles 4:34,38-41)

International Standard Bible Encyclopedia
JOSHAH

jo'-sha (yoshah, "Yahweh's gift"): A descendant of Simeon, chief in his family (1 Chronicles 4:34, 38).

Strong's Hebrew
3144. Yoshah -- a Simeonite
... 3143, 3144. Yoshah. 3145 . a Simeonite. Transliteration: Yoshah Phonetic
Spelling: (yo-shaw') Short Definition: Joshah. Word ... 1). Joshah. ...
/hebrew/3144.htm - 6k
Thesaurus
Joshah (1 Occurrence)
...JOSHAH. jo'-sha (yoshah, "Yahweh's gift"): A descendant of Simeon, chief in his
family (1 Chronicles 4:34, 38). Multi-Version Concordance Joshah (1 Occurrence). ...
/j/joshah.htm - 6k

Joses (7 Occurrences)

/j/joses.htm - 9k

Amaziah (41 Occurrences)
... (4.) The father of Joshah, one of the Simeonite chiefs in the time of Hezekiah
(1 Chronicles 4:34). Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. AMAZIAH. ...
/a/amaziah.htm - 30k

Joshaphat (2 Occurrences)

/j/joshaphat.htm - 7k

Joshaviah (1 Occurrence)
... josh-a-vi'-a (yoshawyah, allied form to JOSHAH (which see)): Son of Elnaam, one
of the band of braves who served David (1 Chronicles 11:46), omitted from the ...
/j/joshaviah.htm - 7k

Jamlech (1 Occurrence)
... Jamlech (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 4:34 Meshobab, and Jamlech, and Joshah the
son of Amaziah, (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV). ...
/j/jamlech.htm - 7k

Meshobab (1 Occurrence)
... Meshobab (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 4:34 Meshobab, and Jamlech, and Joshah
the son of Amaziah, (WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS NIV). ...
/m/meshobab.htm - 7k

Mesho'bab (1 Occurrence)
... Mesho'bab (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 4:34 And Meshobab, and Jamlech, and Joshah
the son of Amaziah; (See RSV). Meshobab, Mesho'bab. Meshullam . ...
/m/mesho'bab.htm - 6k

Amazi'ah (37 Occurrences)
... Jotham his son; (See RSV). 1 Chronicles 4:34 And Meshobab, and Jamlech, and
Joshah the son of Amaziah; (See RSV). 1 Chronicles 6:45 the ...
/a/amazi'ah.htm - 17k

Resources
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Joses: One of the Physical Brothers of Jesus
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