apparently masculine plural construction of עֶשֶׁת in the sense of an afterthought (used only in connection with עָשָׂר in lieu of אֶחָד); eleven or (ordinal) eleventh; [phrase] eleven(-th).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻashtêy**, represented by `{{H6249}}`, is a specific term for **eleven** or **eleventh**. According to its usage statistics, it appears 19 times in 18 verses. The term is a unique construction, used only in combination with `{{H6240}}` (`ʻâsâr`) to form the number eleven, serving in place of the typical word for one, `{{H259}}` (`ʼechâd`).
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6249}}` is used to mark specific quantities and significant moments in time. It is frequently cited as the **eleventh** year of a king's reign, particularly in relation to the siege and fall of Jerusalem during the time of King Zedekiah ([[2 Kings 25:2]]; [[Jeremiah 39:2]]). It also specifies precise counts in divine instructions, such as the **eleven** curtains of goats' hair required for the tabernacle ([[Exodus 26:7]]; [[Exodus 36:14]]). The word is also used to define specific measurements, like the **eleven** cubits for the breadth of the temple porch [[Ezekiel 40:49]], and to count offerings, such as the **eleven** bullocks presented on the third day [[Numbers 29:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related numerical terms provide context for the use and formation of `{{H6249}}`:
* `{{H6240}}` **ʻâsâr** (ten): This word for ten is always used in combination with `{{H6249}}` to create the number **eleven** [[Exodus 26:7]]. It is the base for forming numbers in the teens, such as "fourteen" [[Exodus 12:6]] and "twelve" [[Genesis 35:22]].
* `{{H259}}` **ʼechâd** (one): The term `{{H6249}}` is used in lieu of **ʼechâd** when forming the number eleven. **ʼechâd** is used for "one" or "first," as when describing that the **eleven** curtains of the tabernacle were all of **one** measure [[Exodus 26:8]].
* `{{H8147}}` **shᵉnayim** (two): This word for **two** is used to form the number "twelve" when combined with `{{H6240}}`. It appears in sequence with "eleventh" when listing priestly orders, such as "The **eleventh** to Eliashib, the **twelfth** to Jakim" [[1 Chronicles 24:12]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H6249}}` is found in its precise contextual applications.
* **Marking Historical Judgment:** The term is repeatedly used to timestamp the **eleventh** year of Zedekiah's reign, a period culminating in the capture of Jerusalem and the subsequent captivity. This links the number to a definitive moment of national crisis and divine judgment ([[Jeremiah 1:3]]; [[Jeremiah 52:5]]).
* **Detailing Divine Blueprints:** Its use in the instructions for the tabernacle, specifying **eleven** curtains of a particular size, underscores the meticulous nature of God's commands for sacred worship and construction ([[Exodus 26:7-8]]; [[Exodus 36:14-15]]).
* **Establishing Order:** `{{H6249}}` serves an organizational function in lists that establish order and responsibility, such as designating the **eleventh** captain for the **eleventh** month's service [[1 Chronicles 27:14]] or the **eleventh** warrior in a list [[1 Chronicles 12:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6249}}` provides the specific numerical value of **eleven** or **eleventh**. While its occurrences are limited, its role is significant. It functions as a precise chronological marker for pivotal events in Israel's history, a key detail in the execution of divine commands for the tabernacle, and an organizational element in the structuring of priestly and military roles. The use of **ʻashtêy** illustrates how numbers in scripture carry specific weight, defining everything from architectural details to the timing of national judgment.
TRV