### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Tsᵉrêdâh**, represented by `{{H6868}}`, identifies a place in Palestine, also called **Zeredathah**. Its name is apparently derived from an unused root meaning to pierce or puncture. This location appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, tying it to significant events in the history of Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6868}}` is first mentioned as **Zereda**, the hometown of Jeroboam, the son of Nebat [[1 Kings 11:26]]. This verse identifies Jeroboam as an Ephrathite who was a servant of King Solomon but ultimately "lifted up his hand against the king." The second mention is as **Zeredathah**, a location in the plain of Jordan where the king cast items in the clay ground, situated between Succoth and Zeredathah [[2 Chronicles 4:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help establish the context for this location:
* `{{H3379}}` **Yârobʻâm** ((the) people will contend; Jarobam, the name of two Israelite kings; Jeroboam): The most notable figure connected to Zereda. He is introduced as an Ephrathite from this town before leading a rebellion against Solomon [[1 Kings 11:26]].
* `{{H3603}}` **kikkâr** (a circle, i.e. (by implication) a circumjacent tract or region, especially the Ghor or valley of the Jordan; also a (round) loaf; also a talent (or large [round] coin)): This word describes the geographical setting of Zeredathah. The region is identified as the "plain of Jordan" where King Solomon's workers cast metal for the temple [[2 Chronicles 4:17]].
* `{{H127}}` **ʼădâmâh** (soil (from its general redness); country, earth, ground, husband(-man) (-ry), land): This specifies the type of area where the casting took place. The items were cast in the "clay ground" between Succoth and Zeredathah [[2 Chronicles 4:17]], highlighting the specific natural resources of the location.
### Theological Significance
While simply a place name, the significance of `{{H6868}}` is derived from its association with contrasting royal activities.
* **An Origin of Rebellion:** Zereda is marked as the hometown of Jeroboam `{{H3379}}`, Solomon's servant who rebelled and became the first king of the divided northern kingdom of Israel [[1 Kings 11:26]]. The location is thus tied to an act of division and future idolatry.
* **A Site of Temple Service:** In contrast, the region of Zeredathah served a holy purpose as the site where articles for the temple were cast by the king's command [[2 Chronicles 4:17]]. This links the area to the worship of God and the glory of Solomon's kingdom.
* **A Witness to Israel's History:** The two mentions of Zereda/Zeredathah ground this location in two pivotal and opposing moments: the construction of God's house under a unified kingdom and the rise of the man who would divide it.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6868}}` **Tsᵉrêdâh** is more than a forgotten town; it is a geographical marker for two defining narratives in the life of Israel. Though mentioned only twice, it is the backdrop for both sacred craftsmanship dedicated to God and the beginnings of a rebellion that would tear the nation apart. It demonstrates how a single place can be associated with both divine service and human contention.
TRV