### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Tseleq**, represented by `{{H6768}}`, is the proper name **Zelek**. Derived from an unused root meaning to split, it signifies a fissure. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, identifying a specific individual.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6768}}` identifies an individual named Zelek. In both of his appearances, he is included in a list of significant men associated with military figures. Specifically, he is called **Zelek** the Ammonite and is listed in the company of Naharai, the armourbearer to Joab, the son of Zeruiah ([[2 Samuel 23:37]], [[1 Chronicles 11:39]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for Zelek's identity and associations:
* `{{H5984}}` **ʻAmmôwnîy** (an Ammonite or Ammonitish): This identifies Zelek's heritage, marking him as an Ammonite in both scriptural accounts ([[2 Samuel 23:37]], [[1 Chronicles 11:39]]).
* `{{H3097}}` **Yôwʼâb** (Jehovah-fathered; Joab): Zelek is listed among the men associated with Joab, a prominent military commander ([[2 Samuel 23:37]], [[1 Chronicles 11:39]]).
* `{{H5171}}` **Nachăray** (snorer; Nacharai or Nachrai, an Israelite): The individual named alongside Zelek in both passages. He is identified as the armourbearer of Joab [[1 Chronicles 11:39]].
* `{{H6870}}` **Tsᵉrûwyâh** (wounded; Tserujah, an Israelitess): The mother of Joab. Her name is consistently used to identify her sons, including Joab [[2 Samuel 23:37]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative significance of `{{H6768}}` is tied to the man it identifies.
* **Inclusion Among Notable Figures:** Zelek's name appears in two parallel lists of prominent men, highlighting his status as a recognized individual in the historical record of that time ([[2 Samuel 23:37]], [[1 Chronicles 11:39]]).
* **Ammonite Heritage:** Zelek is explicitly identified as an Ammonite. This is noteworthy as Ammonites were a neighboring, often rival, people [[1 Kings 11:1]]. His presence in this context indicates an inclusion of foreign individuals within the ranks.
* **Connection to Joab's Company:** He is listed in direct association with Naharai, the armourbearer to Joab, son of Zeruiah. This firmly places him within the circle of one of Israel's most powerful military leaders [[1 Chronicles 11:39]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6768}}` is not a common noun but the proper name of a specific individual, Zelek. He is remembered as Zelek the Ammonite, a figure of note. His inclusion in the biblical record, though brief, places him among the distinguished men associated with Joab's command and illustrates how the text preserves the identities of specific individuals, including those of foreign origin, who played a role in Israel's history.
TRV