Bible Dictionary
Rosh
Rosh may be a proper name in Ezekiel’s prophecy, though some translations render it “chief.” It is also listed as a descendant of Benjamin in Genesis.
Definition
Rosh is a name whose meaning and identity are uncertain. In Ezekiel it is rendered “chief” in the Authorized Version but retained as a proper name in the Revised Version. Rosh is also listed in Genesis among the descendants of Benjamin.
Biblical Usage
In Ezekiel, Rosh appears in the prophecy concerning Magog. In Genesis it occurs in a genealogy as one of the sons of Benjamin.
Historical Background
Some interpreters identified the Ezekiel reference with one of the great Scythian tribes and connected it with invasions of Judah. The identification is presented as a conjecture rather than a certainty.
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
(Ezek. 38:2, 3; 39:1) is rendered “chief” in the Authorized Version. It is left untranslated as a proper name in the Revised Version. Some have supposed that the Russians are here meant, as one of the three Scythian tribes of whom Magog was the prince. They invaded the land of Judah in the days of Josiah. Herodotus, the Greek historian, says: “For twenty-eight years the Scythians ruled over Asia, and things were turned upside down by their violence and contempt.” (See BETHSHEAN.)
Smith's Bible Dictionary
(Ezekiel 38:2,3; 39:1) probably a proper name, referring to the first of the three great Scythian tribes of which Magog was the head. (head). In the genealogy of (Genesis 46:21) Rosh is reckoned among the sons of Benjamin.