Mishma

The name Mishma comes from the Hebrew root word shama, meaning 'to hear' or 'hearing.' This etymology reflects the importance of attentiveness and obedience in biblical contexts, as hearing often signifies understanding and responding to God's word. The linguistic roots of the name align with the broader Semitic language family, where similar terms often denote listening or perception. Historically, the name carries a sense of receptivity, which may symbolize spiritual openness or the act of heeding divine instruction.

In the Bible, Mishma is associated with two distinct individuals, each contributing unique layers of significance to the name. The first Mishma is noted as one of the twelve sons of Ishmael, mentioned in Genesis 25:14 and 1 Chronicles 1:30. As a tribal leader, he represents the fulfillment of God's promise to Ishmael, emphasizing the name's connection to divine providence and lineage. The second Mishma is a Simeonite, the son of Mibsam, referenced in 1 Chronicles 4:25. This association ties the name to the tribe of Simeon, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, further grounding it in Israel's spiritual and cultural heritage.

The name Mishma appears in four biblical verses, primarily within genealogical contexts. In Genesis 25:14, Mishma is introduced as the fifth-born son of Ishmael, emphasizing his role within the larger narrative of God's covenant with Abraham and His blessings upon Ishmael's descendants. This genealogical mention underscores God's faithfulness in multiplying Ishmael's lineage into a great nation. Similarly, in 1 Chronicles 1:30, Mishma's name is listed among Ishmael's sons, reaffirming his place within this divinely ordained family tree.