### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Tseltsach**, represented by `{{H6766}}`, is a proper noun for a place in Palestine known as **Zelzah**. Derived from terms meaning "clear shade," it appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its significance comes from its specific role as a geographical marker in the narrative of Saul.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H6766}}` is in [[1 Samuel 10:2]]. In this passage, the prophet Samuel gives a sign to Saul, telling him that after they part, he will find two men at **Zelzah**, which is located by Rachel's sepulchre in the border of Benjamin. These men will confirm that the asses Saul was sent to seek `{{H1245}}` have been found. The message also reveals a change in his father's focus, who has left the "care" `{{H1697}}` of the asses and now "sorroweth" `{{H1672}}` for his son.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context help define the scene at Zelzah:
* `{{H6900}}` **qᵉbûwrâh** (sepulchre): This word for a grave or burying place physically situates Zelzah next to the landmark of "Rachel's sepulchre" [[1 Samuel 10:2]]. It is also used to refer to the burying place of the patriarchs [[Genesis 47:30]].
* `{{H1245}}` **bâqash** (to seek): This defines Saul's original mission to "seek" the lost asses [[1 Samuel 10:2]]. The term is used more broadly to describe striving after God, as in the call to "seek the LORD" [[Zephaniah 2:3]].
* `{{H1672}}` **dâʼag** (to be anxious, sorrow): This describes the emotional state of Saul's father, who "sorroweth" for his son [[1 Samuel 10:2]]. The same word is used to convey being afraid or sorry in other passages ([[Jeremiah 38:19]], [[Psalms 38:18]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6766}}` is tied entirely to its narrative function as a place of confirmation and transition.
* **Marker of Prophetic Fulfillment:** Zelzah is the precise, named location where the first part of Samuel's prophecy to Saul comes true, establishing the divine authority behind the prophet's words [[1 Samuel 10:2]].
* **Point of Transition:** The news delivered at Zelzah pivots Saul's journey. His mundane task of seeking asses is resolved, and he learns he is now the subject of his father's concern, marking a shift in focus toward his own destiny.
* **Landmark of Identity:** The site is explicitly placed "in the border of Benjamin" [[1 Samuel 10:2]], grounding the divine event in Saul's own tribal territory and connecting his future to his heritage.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6766}}` **Tseltsach** is more than just an obscure place name. While it appears only once, its importance is cemented as the location of the first prophetic sign given to Saul. It serves as a geographical anchor for a pivotal moment of transition, marking the point where Saul's mundane quest ends and his divinely appointed journey to the throne begins.
TRV