Eshton (Hebrew: אֶשְׁתּוֹן, meaning “effeminate” or “restful”) was a descendant of Judah. Though he appears only briefly in the genealogical records, he is part of a lineage known for establishing specific cities and trades within the tribal territory of Judah.
Genealogical Standing
Eshton was the son of Mehir and the grandson of Chelub. His family line is recorded in the “Records of Judah” in the first Book of Chronicles:
“And Chelub the brother of Shuah begat Mehir, which was the father of Eshton. And Eshton begat Beth-rapha, and Paseah, and Tehinnah the father of Ir-nahash. These are the men of Rechah.” (1 Chronicles 4:11–12, KJV)
The “Men of Rechah”
Eshton is identified as the progenitor of a group known as the “men of Rechah.” While the exact location of Rechah is not definitively known today, the context suggests it was a region or a town in the southern portion of Judah’s inheritance.
The descendants of Eshton are notable for their names, which suggest the founding of specific locations:
- Beth-rapha: Means “House of the Giant” or “House of Healing.”
- Tehinnah: Known as the “father of Ir-nahash,” which translates to the “City of the Serpent.” This was likely a copper-mining town or a fortified city.
Significance of the Record
Eshton’s inclusion highlights the meticulous nature of the post-exilic records. For the returning Jewish exiles, knowing their connection to men like Eshton was vital for reclaiming ancestral lands.
Though his name might imply a “restful” nature, he was the link between the early pioneers of the tribe of Judah and the established towns that played a role in the defense and economy of the kingdom.