The Hebrew name Peresh, represented by H6570, identifies a specific Israelite. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. The name's sole function is to mark an individual within the genealogies of the tribes of Israel, as its definition is simply "Peresh, an Israelite".
Peresh is mentioned exclusively within a genealogical record in the book of 1 Chronicles. He is identified as the son H1121 of Machir H4353 and his wife H802, Maachah H4601. The verse states that Maachah bare H3205 a son and called H7121 his name H8034 Peresh. This account also identifies his brother H251, Sheresh H8329, and lists Ulam H198 and Rekem H7552 in the same passage 1 Chronicles 7:16.
Several related words clarify the context of Peresh's identity within this genealogy:
- H1121 bên (a son): This word establishes Peresh's place in the lineage of Machir and is foundational to the genealogical records 1 Chronicles 7:16. The term is crucial for understanding inheritance and generational continuity.
- H251 ʼâch (a brother): This term defines the immediate familial relationship between Peresh and Sheresh, placing them in the same generation 1 Chronicles 7:16. It signifies kinship and shared parentage.
- H3205 yâlad (to bear young): This verb is the action that introduces Peresh into the biblical record. It signifies not just physical birth but also the continuation of a family line, as when Maachah "bare" a son 1 Chronicles 7:16.
The significance of H6570 is entirely genealogical, marking a specific individual in the tribe of Manasseh.
- Link in a Patriarchal Line: Peresh is presented as a descendant of Machir H4353, who is identified elsewhere as the son H1121 of Manasseh Numbers 27:1. This places Peresh within the lineage of one of Israel's prominent tribes.
- Establishment of Identity: The act of naming is highlighted in his introduction. His mother, Maachah, called H7121 his name H8034 Peresh, and the text immediately clarifies the name H8034 of his brother H251 as well, securing their distinct places in the record 1 Chronicles 7:16.
- Familial Context: Peresh's identity is defined solely by his family connections. He is the son of Machir and Maachah and the brother of Sheresh. His existence in scripture serves to fill out this specific branch of the family tree 1 Chronicles 7:16.
In summary, Peresh H6570 is not a figure of narrative action but a genealogical marker. His single appearance in scripture serves to document a specific individual within the family of Machir H4353 and the tribe of Manasseh. The entry for Peresh demonstrates the importance placed on preserving lineage and familial identity, where even individuals with no recorded deeds are named to maintain a complete and accurate ancestral record.
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