from סָלַד; exultation; Seled, an Israelite; Seled.
Transliteration:Çeled
Pronunciation:seh'-led
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word `{{H5540}}` (Çeled) is primarily a proper noun, functioning as the name of an individual in the biblical text. Its meaning is derived from its root verb, `{{H5539}}` (salad), which signifies "to leap," "to spring," or "to exult." Therefore, the name "Seled" inherently carries the meaning of "exultation," "leaping for joy," or "one who exults." Unlike many Hebrew words that have a broad semantic range as common nouns or verbs, `{{H5540}}` is restricted to this onomastic function, with its semantic depth residing in the etymological root.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H5540}}` appears twice in the Hebrew Bible, exclusively within the genealogical records of the book of 1 Chronicles:
* [[1 Chronicles 2:30]]: "And the sons of Nadab: Seled and Appaim; and Seled died without children."
* [[1 Chronicles 2:31]]: "And the sons of Appaim: Ishi. And the sons of Ishi: Sheshan. And the sons of Sheshan: Ahlai."
In both instances, "Seled" refers to a descendant of Judah through Jerahmeel, a son of Hezron. He is identified as a son of Nadab. The brief mention in [[1 Chronicles 2:30]] notes his death without progeny, which is significant in a genealogical context as it marks the termination of his direct line. The biblical text provides no further narrative details about Seled's life, actions, or character beyond his familial placement and the cessation of his lineage. His inclusion serves purely to delineate the family tree of Judah.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relation to `{{H5540}}` is its verbal root, `{{H5539}}` (salad), meaning "to leap" or "to exult." This root evokes a physical expression of intense joy or triumph. Conceptually, `{{H5540}}` connects to a broader array of Hebrew words that convey the idea of joy, rejoicing, and praise, even if not directly etymologically linked. These include:
* `{{H1523}}` (gil): "to rejoice," "to be joyful," often with a sense of spinning or dancing.
* `{{H7442}}` (ranan): "to shout for joy," "to utter a ringing cry," often in triumph or worship.
* `{{H8055}}` (samach): "to rejoice," "to be glad," a more general term for happiness.
* `{{H6286}}` (pa'al): "to dance," often in religious celebration.
These terms collectively underscore the biblical emphasis on exultation as a proper response to God's character, His mighty acts of salvation, and His covenant faithfulness.
### Theological Significance
Given that `{{H5540}}` is solely a proper noun with no associated narrative, its theological significance is primarily derived from the meaning of the name itself: "exultation." This meaning resonates deeply with several core biblical themes:
1. **Joy in God:** The Bible frequently calls believers to exult in the Lord, to find their greatest joy and delight in His presence and His works ([[Psalm 33:1]], [[Psalm 97:12]]). The name "Seled" implicitly points to this fundamental aspect of the covenant relationship.
2. **Response to Salvation:** Exultation is a common response to divine deliverance and salvation ([[Exodus 15:1]], [[Psalm 9:14]]). The very concept embedded in the name "Seled" suggests a spirit of joyful praise for God's redemptive power.
3. **Hope and Aspiration:** The naming of children in ancient Israel often reflected the parents' hopes, prayers, or a declaration of faith concerning God's provision or character. To name a son "Exultation" could signify a parental aspiration for the child's life to be characterized by joy in the Lord, or a testimony to God's goodness that inspired such exultation in their own lives.
While the individual Seled is a minor figure in a genealogy, the very meaning of his name serves as a subtle theological marker, reminding the reader of the pervasive and vital theme of exultation within the biblical narrative, particularly as it relates to the people of God.
### Summary
`{{H5540}}` (Çeled) is a Hebrew proper noun, the name of an Israelite appearing in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles. Derived from the verb `{{H5539}}`, its meaning is "exultation" or "leaping for joy." Seled is mentioned as a son of Nadab, a descendant of Judah, and is noted for dying without offspring, which concludes his direct line in the biblical record. Despite the lack of narrative detail about the individual, the name itself carries profound theological resonance. It subtly reinforces the biblical emphasis on exultation as a central aspect of faith, expressing joy in God, celebrating His salvation, and reflecting a spirit of hope or testimony within God's covenant people. Thus, even in a simple genealogical entry, the name "Seled" points to a rich and vital biblical concept.
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