The Hebrew name ʼUzzên Sheʼĕrâh, represented by H242, is the proper name of a place in Palestine. It is defined as the "plot of Sheerah (i.e. settled by him); Uzzen-Sheerah." This name appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire biblical text, making it a very specific and localized reference.
The single biblical occurrence of H242 is found in a genealogical list within the book of Chronicles. The text states, "And his daughter was Sherah, who built Bethhoron the nether, and the upper, and Uzzensherah" 1 Chronicles 7:24. This passage is significant because it directly attributes the founding and construction of this town, along with two others, to a woman named Sherah. The town is explicitly named for its builder.
Several related words are key to understanding the context of Uzzensherah's founding:
- H7609 Sheʼĕrâh (Sherah): The Israelitess for whom the town is named. She is identified as a "daughter" H1323 who is credited with being a builder 1 Chronicles 7:24.
- H1129 bânâh (to build): This root verb describes Sherah's action. It is used both literally for constructing cities and figuratively for establishing a family or legacy Proverbs 14:1.
- H1032 Bêyth Chôwrôwn (Beth-horon): Meaning "house of hollowness," this is the other location Sherah built. It is mentioned as both an "upper" H5945 and "nether" H8481 city, highlighting its strategic importance 2 Chronicles 8:5.
- H1323 bath (daughter): This word identifies Sherah's relationship within her family. Beyond its literal use, the term is often used figuratively to personify cities, such as the "daughter of Zion" Zechariah 9:9.
The historical significance of H242 is tied directly to its founding narrative.
- Named for a Founder: The name itself, meaning "plot of Sheerah," serves as a permanent monument to its founder, preserving her legacy within the land.
- A Woman as Builder: It is noteworthy that the Bible credits a woman, Sherah, with the construction of three towns. This act of building H1129 was a significant undertaking, and attributing it to a "daughter" H1323 is a remarkable detail in the scriptural record.
- Strategic Construction: Sherah is also the builder of Beth-horon, a location of clear strategic importance mentioned in accounts of military campaigns and boundary descriptions Joshua 10:10-11. The construction of Uzzensherah alongside Beth-horon suggests it was part of a significant and planned development.
In summary, H242 ʼUzzên Sheʼĕrâh is more than just a rare place name. Its sole mention in scripture provides a unique historical account of a town founded by and named after a woman named Sherah. The name's direct connection to its builder, as recorded in 1 Chronicles 7:24, offers a concise but powerful testament to the legacy of a female builder in ancient Israel.
TRV