The Hebrew word Tsᵉrûwʻâh, represented by H6871, is the proper name Zeruah. The word's base definition is "leprous" or "Tseruah, an Israelitess." It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, identifying a specific individual in a pivotal moment of Israel's history.
The sole appearance of H6871 is in the introduction of a key figure in Israel's political future. In 1 Kings 11:26, Zeruah is named as the mother of Jeroboam, Solomon's servant who would later rebel. The verse establishes her identity, stating she was "a widow woman" H490 H802. This mention provides the maternal lineage for Jeroboam H3379, the man who "lifted up his hand against the king" H4428.
The context of Zeruah's mention is enriched by several related words that define her relationships and situation:
- H3379 Yârobʻâm (Jeroboam): As the son of Zeruah, he is the central character whose name means "(the) people will contend" 1 Kings 11:26. The Lord's divine plan is enacted through him to divide the kingdom 1 Kings 12:15.
- H1121 bên (son): This word defines Zeruah's relationship to Jeroboam and his role as a "builder of the family name." The concept of passing heritage and instruction to a son is a recurring theme Deuteronomy 4:9.
- H517 ʼêm (mother): This identifies Zeruah's role as "the bond of the family." The command to honor one's father and mother H517 is a foundational principle in scripture Exodus 20:12.
- H490 ʼalmânâh (widow): This describes Zeruah's social status. The Bible frequently shows God's special concern for the widow H490, positioning Himself as their judge and protector Psalms 68:5.
Though mentioned only in passing, the identity of H6871 carries significant weight in the narrative.
- Maternal Lineage of Rebellion: Zeruah is the mother of Jeroboam, whose rebellion against Solomon led to the division of Israel. Her inclusion establishes the human origins of a figure used to enact divine judgment 1 Kings 11:26.
- The Significance of a Widow: By identifying Zeruah as a "widow woman," the text highlights her potentially vulnerable status. It underscores that a future king could rise from humble or challenging circumstances, born to a woman for whom God shows special care Jeremiah 22:3.
- A Fulfilled Prophecy: Zeruah's son, Jeroboam, is the fulfillment of Ahijah's prophecy concerning the tearing of the kingdom from Solomon's hand. She is thus part of the lineage through which God's word H1697 is performed 2 Chronicles 10:15.
In summary, H6871 is more than just a name in a genealogy. As Zeruah, she is recorded in scripture as the widowed mother of Jeroboam, the man who would divide the kingdom of Israel. Her single mention provides a crucial piece of context, grounding a major political and theological event in the life of a specific family and highlighting the narrative's attention to details of lineage and social status, even for individuals who appear only once.
TRV