Ethan
Ethan in the Bible — the Ezrahite (1KI 4:31) [Zerahite?- 1CH 2:6]. Referenced in 3 scripture passages.
Name meaning: “strong; the gift of the island”
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Scripture References
- 3 references
- Known Names
- 1 name
- Relationships
- 2 connections
Biography
Ethan is a male biblical figure known as the Ezrahite, a designation that likely reflects a scribal variation of Zerahite. He is probably the same individual as the son of Zerah, son of Judah, based on the matching names of his brothers. Ethan the Ezrahite is also recognized as the author of Psalm 89, indicating his role as a wise and inspired contributor to Scripture.
Names & Titles
The name Ethan means 'long lived, ever-flowing [streams],' reflecting a sense of enduring strength and vitality. This proper name is noted in 1 Kings 4:31 and does not appear to have been given directly by God but carries meaningful Hebrew connotations.
Family
Scripture explicitly identifies Ethan as the son of Zerah (1 Kings 4:31) and, by inference, as the son of Azariah (1 Chronicles 2:8). These connections place him within the tribe of Judah, linking him to a significant lineage in Israel's history.
Significance
Ethan's significance lies in his wisdom and his contribution to biblical poetry, particularly as the named author of Psalm 89. His identification as an Ezrahite or Zerahite connects him to the tribe of Judah, emphasizing his heritage and role within God's covenant people. The commentary by Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown supports the understanding that Ethan the Ezrahite and the son of Zerah are the same person, underscoring the reliability of this identification. Additionally, the mention of 'sons of Mahol' as 'sons of dancing' hints at a cultural or liturgical role connected to worship.
Names & Labels (1)
- Hebrew
- אֵיתָן
- Transliteration
- eytan
- Meaning
- long lived, ever-flowing [streams]
- Greek
- Γαιθαν
- Reference
- 1KI 4:31
- Strong's
- H387
Notes
This Ethan is likely the same person as the son of Zerah, son of Judah (1CH 2:6) given the matching names of his brothers. Ethan the "EZrahite" may be a scribal transposition of "ZErahite". Ethan the Ezrahite is also named as the author of Psalm 89. Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown Commentary (1871) says they are the same individuals. Sons of Mahol is an appelative for "sons of dancing".
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Ethan in the Bible?
Ethan is a male biblical figure known as the Ezrahite, a designation that likely reflects a scribal variation of Zerahite. He is probably the same individual as the son of Zerah, son of Judah, based on the matching names of his brothers. Ethan the Ezrahite is also recognized as the author of Psalm 89, indicating his role as a wise and inspired contributor to Scripture.
What does the name Ethan mean?
The name Ethan means “strong; the gift of the island” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.