### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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