### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H2792}}` (חֶרֶשׁ, *Cheresh*) is a proper noun, specifically a personal name. Its base definition states it is "the same as `{{H2790}}`." This points to a deeper etymological root for the name. `{{H2790}}` (חרש, *cheresh*) itself carries a semantic range derived from the verb `{{H2790}}` (חרש, *charash*), which means "to cut, engrave, devise, plow, be silent, or be deaf."
Therefore, the name *Cheresh* likely connotes meanings such as "craftsman," "artisan," "engraver" (one who works with skill and precision), or potentially "silent," "devoted," or "meditative" (implying a state of quiet attentiveness or deep thought). Given the individual's identity as a Levite, the connotations of skilled service or dedicated devotion are particularly pertinent.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The proper noun `{{H2792}}` (חֶרֶשׁ, *Cheresh*) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible:
* [[1 Chronicles 9:15]]: "And Bakbakkar, Heresh, and Galal, and Mattaniah the son of Mica, the son of Zichri, the son of Asaph;"
In this solitary occurrence, Cheresh is listed among the Levites who dwelt in Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. The context of [[1 Chronicles 9]] is a detailed enumeration of those who returned to reside in Jerusalem, particularly focusing on the priestly and Levitical families responsible for the re-establishment of temple service and the city's religious life. Cheresh is presented as one of the individuals who contributed to the continuity of the Levitical lineage and the restoration of orderly worship in the post-exilic community. While his specific role or contribution is not elaborated beyond his inclusion in this list, his presence signifies his participation in the renewed life of the nation centered around the rebuilt temple.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related term is `{{H2790}}` (חרש, *cheresh*), from which the proper name `{{H2792}}` is directly derived. This word signifies "craftsman," "artisan," "engraver," or "silence/deafness." The underlying verbal root is also `{{H2790}}` (חרש, *charash*), meaning "to cut, engrave, plow, devise, be silent, or be deaf."
Other related terms that highlight the "craftsman" aspect include:
* `{{H2796}}` (חָרָשׁ, *charash*): A general term for a craftsman or artisan.
* Specific types of craftsmen, often combining *charash* with the material:
* `{{H2799}}` (חָרָשׁ אֶבֶן, *charash 'eben*): Stonecutter.
* `{{H2800}}` (חָרָשׁ עֵץ, *charash 'ets*): Carpenter, woodworker.
* `{{H2803}}` (חָרָשׁ בַּרְזֶל, *charash barzel*): Ironsmith.
* `{{H2797}}` (חָרָשׁ חָרָשׁ, *charash charash*): A master craftsman or skilled artisan, as seen in [[2 Kings 24:14]] and [[Jeremiah 24:1]].
The conceptual connection to "silence" or "devotion" aligns with the Levites' consecrated role, often involving quiet service, attentiveness to divine instruction, and a life set apart for God.
### Theological Significance
As a proper noun appearing only once in a genealogical list, `{{H2792}}` (Cheresh) does not carry direct theological weight in terms of doctrine or prophecy. However, its theological significance can be inferred from its context and potential etymological meaning:
1. **Continuity of God's Covenant and Service:** Cheresh's inclusion in the list of Levites dwelling in post-exilic Jerusalem in [[1 Chronicles 9:15]] underscores the enduring nature of God's covenant with the tribe of Levi. It highlights the divine faithfulness in preserving a remnant and re-establishing the ordered worship and service of the temple, even after the devastating exile. His name contributes to the larger narrative of restoration and the meticulous care taken by the chronicler to record those who participated in this renewal.
2. **Implication of Levitical Service:** While not explicitly stated, the potential meaning of his name—"craftsman" or "devoted/silent"—could subtly reflect the nature of Levitical duties. Levites were involved in various aspects of temple service, from maintaining the sanctuary and preparing sacrifices to leading worship and administering temple affairs. This often required skilled labor (craftsmanship) and a spirit of devoted, perhaps quiet, service and obedience.
3. **Emphasis on Individual Participation in Community:** Even though Cheresh is a minor figure, his inclusion signifies that every individual, even those not prominent in grand narratives, plays a part in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan and the life of His covenant community. The meticulous genealogical records in Chronicles emphasize the divine ordering and the importance of each member within the collective body of Israel.
### Summary
`{{H2792}}` (חֶרֶשׁ, *Cheresh*) is a proper noun, the name of a Levite mentioned in the post-exilic genealogical records of [[1 Chronicles 9:15]]. The name is etymologically linked to `{{H2790}}` (חרש), meaning "craftsman," "artisan," or "silence," derived from the verb `{{H2790}}` (חרש) "to cut, devise, or be silent." Cheresh's sole biblical occurrence places him among the Levites who returned to Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile, signifying the re-establishment of temple service and the continuity of the Levitical line. While his specific role is not detailed, his name subtly resonates with the potential qualities of Levitical service—either skilled craftsmanship for the sanctuary or a spirit of silent devotion to God. His inclusion in the biblical record underscores the enduring nature of God's covenant, the importance of the Levitical priesthood in Israel's worship, and the value of individual participation in the restoration of God's people.
TRV