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Unveiling the Word

In Biblical studies, understanding key figures and names can provide significant insights into the context and lineage of important events. The name Ναασσών (Naassōn) is especially notable in the genealogy of Jesus Christ, appearing in Matthew 1:4. This word is a transliteration of the Hebrew name Nahshon, who was a leader of the tribe of Judah during the Israelites’ time in the wilderness. As the son of Amminadab, Naassōn’s importance lies not only in his leadership but in his connection to the Davidic line, and ultimately, the genealogy of Jesus. The name’s inclusion in the New Testament serves as a bridge between the Old Testament’s narrative of the Israelites and the fulfillment of Messianic prophecies in the New Testament.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: Ναασσών (Naassōn), pronounced nah-AS-sone.

Etymology: The Greek Ναασσών is a transliteration of the Hebrew name נַחְשׁוֹן (Nahshon), meaning “enchanter” or “one who foretells.” This etymology reflects a connection to leadership and forward vision, fitting for a tribal chief who played a key role during Israel’s journey through the wilderness.

Part of Speech: Proper noun. Ναασσών is a masculine name referring to a historical figure in the lineage of David and, by extension, Jesus. It is used as a proper noun, representing a specific person within the context of the genealogies listed in Matthew and Luke.

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Defining Meanings

1. Historical Figure: Ναασσών refers to the historical figure Nahshon, son of Amminadab, and leader of the tribe of Judah during the Exodus. He is mentioned in the book of Numbers as a key figure during the wilderness period of Israel.

2. Genealogical Significance: The name is significant in tracing the lineage of Jesus, appearing in both Matthew’s and Luke’s genealogies, linking the line of Judah to the Messiah.

3. Symbol of Leadership: As a leader of Judah, Ναασσών represents leadership, vision, and guidance, reflecting his prominent role during a critical time in Israel’s history.

Exploring Similar Words

1. Ἀμμιναδάβ (Amminadab) [pronunciation: am-mee-NA-dab]: Naassōn’s father, whose name is often linked with royalty and priestly leadership in biblical narratives.

2. Ἰούδας (Ioudas) [pronunciation: ee-OO-das]: Refers to Judah, the tribe from which Naassōn came, highlighting his connection to the royal line leading to David and ultimately Jesus.

3. Δαυίδ (Dauid) [pronunciation: da-VEED]: David, king of Israel, is a descendant of Naassōn, cementing the latter’s importance in the Messianic line.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Case, Number, Gender:

• Case: Ναασσών appears in different grammatical cases depending on its role in a sentence. In Matthew 1:4, it appears in the nominative singular as part of the genealogy.

• Number: Singular, referring to one individual, Nahshon.

• Gender: Masculine.

Declension:

Case Singular

Nominative Ναασσών

Genitive Ναασσώνος

Dative Ναασσώνι

Accusative Ναασσώνα

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Studying Lexicon Insights

Naassōn’s role in biblical history is crucial in linking the Old Testament genealogies with New Testament prophecy. Lexicons emphasize his importance as a tribal leader and the father of Salmon, who is directly connected to the Davidic line. In New Testament contexts, Ναασσών is referenced to emphasize continuity between the Old Covenant people of Israel and the Messianic fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The name’s Hebrew roots further underscore Naassōn’s prophetic and leadership qualities, which play a role in his symbolic significance as part of the Messiah’s lineage.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Matthew 1:4 – “And Aram the father of Aminadab, and Aminadab the father of Nahshon [Ναασσών], and Nahshon the father of Salmon.”

2. Luke 3:32 – “The son of Jesse, the son of Obed, the son of Boaz, the son of Salmon, the son of Nahshon [Ναασσών].”

3. Numbers 7:12 – “The one who presented his offering the first day was Nahshon [Ναασσών], the son of Amminadab, of the tribe of Judah.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Author Name of Work Greek Usage in Text

Septuagint Numbers 1:7 “From the tribe of Judah, Nahshon [Ναασσών], son of Amminadab.”

Josephus Antiquities “Nahshon [Ναασσών] led the tribe of Judah as they crossed the wilderness.”

Septuagint Numbers 7:12 “Nahshon [Ναασσών], son of Amminadab, made the first offering for his tribe.”

Noteworthy Summary

Naassōn (Ναασσών) plays a critical role in biblical genealogies, tracing the lineage of Jesus back to the tribe of Judah. As a leader of his people and a pivotal figure during Israel’s wilderness journey, Naassōn’s name signifies leadership, prophecy, and divine guidance. His inclusion in the genealogies of Matthew and Luke cements his importance in the overarching narrative of salvation history. Understanding the significance of Ναασσών provides deeper insight into the continuity of God’s plan from the Old Testament through to the New Testament.

Did You Know?

1. Ναασσών is mentioned as the first leader to present an offering for his tribe in Numbers 7:12.

2. Naassōn is considered the “prince of the tribe of Judah” during the wilderness period of the Exodus.

3. According to Jewish tradition, Nahshon was the first to step into the Red Sea before it parted, showing great faith.