Jump to: Hitchcock's • Smith's • ISBE • Easton's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning: The name "Massa" is derived from the Hebrew word "מַשָּׂא" (Massah), which means "burden" or "oracle." It is often associated with a sense of carrying a weight or responsibility, and in some contexts, it can imply a divine message or pronouncement. Biblical References: Massa is mentioned in the genealogies of the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the descendants of Ishmael. In Genesis 25:13-15 , Massa is listed as one of the sons of Ishmael: "These are the names of the sons of Ishmael, listed in the order of their birth: Nebaioth the firstborn of Ishmael, Kedar, Adbeel, Mibsam, Mishma, Dumah, Massa, Hadad, Tema, Jetur, Naphish, and Kedemah." This passage highlights Massa as one of the twelve princes, each representing a tribe, who were the progeny of Ishmael, the son of Abraham and Hagar. Historical and Cultural Context: Massa, as a descendant of Ishmael, is traditionally considered to be part of the Arab tribes that settled in the northern Arabian Peninsula. The Ishmaelites, including the tribe of Massa, were known for their nomadic lifestyle, often engaging in trade and commerce across the region. The mention of Massa in the genealogies underscores the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that Ishmael would become a great nation (Genesis 17:20). Theological Significance: The inclusion of Massa in the biblical genealogies serves as a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. Despite Ishmael not being the child of promise through whom the covenant would be established (that role belonged to Isaac), God still honored His word to make Ishmael a father of twelve princes and a great nation. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God's sovereignty and His ability to work through various lineages and peoples to accomplish His divine purposes. Related References and Interpretations: In 1 Chronicles 1:29-31 , the chronicler reiterates the genealogy of Ishmael, including Massa, emphasizing the continuity and importance of these lineages in the history of Israel and its neighboring nations. The chronicler's account serves to remind the readers of the interconnectedness of the peoples in the biblical narrative and the unfolding of God's plan through diverse groups. Extra-Biblical References: While the Bible provides limited information about Massa beyond the genealogical listings, some historical and archaeological sources suggest that the descendants of Massa may have been part of the larger network of Arabian tribes that interacted with the ancient Near Eastern civilizations. These interactions would have included trade, cultural exchanges, and occasional conflicts, contributing to the complex tapestry of the region's history. Conclusion: The entry for Massa in a Bible Encyclopedia or Topical Bible highlights the significance of this figure within the broader context of biblical history and theology. As a son of Ishmael, Massa represents one of the many threads in the intricate narrative of God's dealings with humanity, showcasing His faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises across generations. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary MassaSmith's Bible Dictionary Massa(burden), a son of Ishmael. (Genesis 26:14; 1 Chronicles 1:30) His descendants were not improbably the Masani , placed by Ptolemy in the east of Arabia, near the borders of Babylonia. Easton's Bible Dictionary A lifting up, gift, one of the sons of Ishmael, the founder of an Arabian tribe (Genesis 25:14); a nomad tribe inhabiting the Arabian desert toward Babylonia. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia MASSAmas'-a (massa', "burden"): Descendant of Abraham through Ishmael (Genesis 25:14 1 Chronicles 1:30). His people may be the Masani of Ptolemy, having Eastern Arabia near Babylon as their habitat. The marginal reading of the heading to Proverbs 31 mentions Lemuel as king of Massa. If that reading is accepted, it would seem that a tribe and probably a place were named from Ishmael's descendant. The reading is doubtful, however, for where the phrase recurs in Proverbs 30 (Revised Version (British and American)) it appears to be a gloss. Strong's Hebrew 4854. Massa -- a son of Ishmael, also the realm of King Lemuel... 4853b, 4854. Massa. 4855 . a son of Ishmael, also the realm of King Lemuel. Transliteration: Massa Phonetic Spelling: (mas-saw') Short Definition: Massa. ... /hebrew/4854.htm - 6k 4551b. massa -- a missile, dart 4550. massa -- a pulling up, breaking (camp), setting out, a ... 4551a. massa -- a quarry or quarrying 4853a. massa -- a load, burden, lifting, bearing, tribute 4853b. massa -- utterance, oracle 4853. massa' -- a load, burden, lifting, bearing, tribute 3927. Lemuel -- king of Massa Library How Brother James Della Massa Saw in a vision all the Friars Minor ... Sambo and the Infidel Judge. Liberty. Of the Holy Brother James of Fallerone, and How, after his Death ... "Liberty Now and Forever. " The Races --A Letter The Upbringing of Jewish Children Sincere Seekers Assured Finders Faith Moody's Stories Thesaurus Massa (4 Occurrences)... Standard Bible Encyclopedia. MASSA. mas'-a (massa', "burden"): Descendant of Abraham through Ishmael (Genesis 25:14 1 Chronicles 1:30). ...Massa (4 Occurrences). ... /m/massa.htm - 8k Burden (111 Occurrences) Jakeh (1 Occurrence) Lemuel (3 Occurrences) Dumah (4 Occurrences) Mishma (4 Occurrences) Proverbs (11 Occurrences) Oracle (57 Occurrences) Tema (5 Occurrences) Tribute (67 Occurrences) Resources Who are the descendants of Ishmael? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Massa (4 Occurrences)Genesis 25:14 1 Chronicles 1:30 Proverbs 30:1 Proverbs 31:1 Subtopics Related Terms |