The name Ashhur (Hebrew: ’Ashchur) is believed to mean “black” or “dark.” He is an ancestral figure in the Bible, specifically identified as a descendant of Judah and the founder of several prominent towns in the territory of that tribe. His importance lies not in any recorded deed, but in his role as the progenitor of key families and the establisher of regional settlements.
His lineage is recorded in the genealogical chapter of 1 Chronicles.
1. The Progenitor of Tekoa
Ashhur is presented as the son of Hezron and the grandson of Judah, making him a critical link in the genealogy of the royal tribe. He is distinguished by his family relationships and his role as the founder of the town of Tekoa.
1 Chronicles 4:5 records his family:
“And Ashhur the father of Tekoa had two wives, Helah and Naarah.” (KJV, emphasis added).
The phrase “father of Tekoa” is a genealogical designation meaning he was the founder, chief settler, or principal ancestor of the people who inhabited the town of Tekoa.
- Tekoa was a strategically important town located in the hill country of Judah, known in later history as the home of the prophet Amos (Amos 1:1) and as the place where a wise woman was dispatched to speak to King David (2 Samuel 14:2).
2. The Descendants of Ashhur
The biblical record meticulously lists the children borne to Ashhur by his two wives, Helah and Naarah, thereby establishing the family lines that branched out from him:
- Sons by Naarah: “And Naarah bare him Ahuzam, and Hepher, and Temeni, and Haahashtari. These were the sons of Naarah.” (1 Chronicles 4:6, KJV).
- Sons by Helah: “And the sons of Helah were Zereth, and Jezoar, and Ethnan.” (1 Chronicles 4:7, KJV).
The purpose of this careful enumeration is to detail the structure of the tribe of Judah after the conquest of Canaan. These genealogies confirm the territorial and clan boundaries of the returned exiles, ensuring that the historical claim to their inheritance was maintained.
The Theological Significance
Ashhur’s inclusion in the biblical text, like many of the genealogical figures, serves a profound theological function:
- Securing the Royal Line: As a direct descendant of Judah, Ashhur’s place in the record helps secure the overall integrity of the Davidic line, which was descended from Judah and ultimately led to the Messiah. Every name in this chain is important for verifying the fulfillment of prophecy.
- Settlement and Foundation: His title, “father of Tekoa,” highlights the importance of the covenant people settling the promised land and establishing centers of life and worship. Ashhur represents the foundation of permanent, organized Hebrew life in the southern kingdom.
In conclusion, Ashhur was a patriarch of the Tribe of Judah, remembered as the founder of Tekoa and the progenitor of several key families. His presence in the scripture testifies to the meticulous care God took in preserving the lineages and territorial claims of His covenant people.