Nahshon

—Biblical Data:

Son of Amminadab; descendant in the fifth generation from Judah and brother-in-law of Aaron (Exodus 6:23; 1 Chronicles 2:4-10). Nahshon was appointed by Moses, upon God's command, as prince of the tribe of Judah, and though his tribe was fourth in the order of the Patriarchs, yet at the dedication of the Tabernacle he was the first to bring his dedicatory offering (Numbers 1:7; 2:3; 7:12,17; 10:14). Nahshon was, through Boaz, the ancestor of David (Ruth 4:20-22; 1 Chronicles 2:10 et seq.).

—In Rabbinical Literature:

Owing to his direct descent from Judah and to his being the progenitor of so many kings, Nahshon is extolled by the Rabbis as a most noble man. Nahshon's sister Elisheba married Aaron (Exodus 6:23), and this is especially mentioned as a hint that one should take care to select a wife whose brothers are noble (B. B. 110a). At the crossing of the Red Sea Nahshon was the first to spring into the water (whence his name