from the same as צֶרֶת and שַׁחַר with the article interposed; splendor of the dawn; Tsereth-hash-Shachar, a place in Palestine; Zareth-shahar.
Transliteration:Tsereth hash-Shachar
Pronunciation:tseh'-reth hash-shakh'-ar
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma צֶרֶת הַשַּׁחַר (Tsereth hash-Shachar, `{{H6890}}`) is a proper noun, designating a specific geographical location. Its etymological components offer insight into its descriptive meaning. The term is comprised of צֶרֶת (Tsereth), which in this context is understood to convey "splendor" or "radiance," and שַׁחַר (shachar, `{{H7837}}`), meaning "dawn" or "early morning," with the definite article הַ (ha) interposed. Thus, the literal translation of the name is "splendor of the dawn" or "radiance of the morning." This evocative name likely describes a place known for its striking beauty at sunrise, perhaps a vantage point from which the breaking of day was particularly magnificent. As a place name, it serves to identify a specific site within the biblical landscape.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Tsereth-hash-Shachar appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of Joshua:
* [[Joshua 13:19]]: "And Kiriathaim, and Sibmah, and Zereth-shahar in the mount of the valley."
This verse is part of the detailed account of the tribal allotments in the Transjordan region, specifically describing the inheritance given to the tribe of Reuben. Tsereth-hash-Shachar is listed among several cities and towns that fell within Reuben's territory. The accompanying phrase "in the mount of the valley" (בְּהַר הָעֵמֶק) suggests that Tsereth-hash-Shachar was situated on an elevated position, perhaps a mountain or ridge, overlooking a valley. This geographical description aligns perfectly with the name "splendor of the dawn," as such a location would offer an ideal vantage point for witnessing a breathtaking sunrise, a sight that would naturally lend its name to the settlement. Its inclusion in the meticulous demarcation of tribal lands underscores its significance as a recognized landmark during the Israelite settlement.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary component שַׁחַר (shachar, `{{H7837}}`) is a common and richly symbolic word in the Hebrew Bible, referring to the dawn or morning light. It is frequently associated with new beginnings, hope, divine visitation, and the breaking of darkness (e.g., [[Psalm 139:9]], [[Isaiah 8:20]], [[Job 3:9]]). The other component, צֶרֶת, while less common with the specific meaning of "splendor," points to concepts of beauty, brilliance, and light. Related concepts in Hebrew thought include:
* אוֹר (or, `{{H216}}`): General term for light, often associated with God's presence and blessing.
* זֹהַר (zohar, `{{H2096}}`): Radiance, brilliance, often used in contexts of divine glory or celestial bodies.
* Place names in the Bible often carried descriptive meanings, reflecting geographical features, historical events, or aspirations. Tsereth-hash-Shachar belongs to this category of evocative place names, much like En-gedi ("spring of the kid") or Beer-sheba ("well of the oath"). The naming of places after natural phenomena or striking features demonstrates an acute awareness of the environment and often, an implicit acknowledgment of divine artistry in creation.
### Theological Significance
While Tsereth-hash-Shachar is a geographical marker, its name, "splendor of the dawn," carries implicit theological weight. The dawn in biblical thought is often a metaphor for God's faithfulness, the renewal of His mercies, and the promise of new beginnings. For instance, [[Lamentations 3:22-23]] speaks of God's mercies being "new every morning." The "splendor of the dawn" evokes the beauty and order of God's creation, a testament to His wisdom and power. The naming of a place after such a beautiful natural phenomenon could be seen as an acknowledgment of God's blessing upon the land and its inhabitants. It suggests a land imbued with natural beauty, reflecting the goodness of the Creator. Furthermore, the light of dawn often prefigures the coming of salvation and divine revelation, echoing themes found in prophetic literature where God's light dispels darkness (e.g., [[Isaiah 9:2]]). Thus, even a seemingly simple place name can subtly point to the divine hand in the world and the hope inherent in God's ongoing work.
### Summary
Tsereth-hash-Shachar (`{{H6890}}`) is a unique Hebrew place name, literally meaning "splendor of the dawn." It appears only once in [[Joshua 13:19]], identifying a location within the tribal inheritance of Reuben, east of the Jordan River. Its descriptive name likely alludes to a prominent geographical feature, perhaps a mountain or high ground, from which the sunrise was exceptionally beautiful. The components of the name, particularly שַׁחַר (dawn), resonate with broader biblical themes of new beginnings, divine faithfulness, and the beauty of creation. While a specific geographical marker, Tsereth-hash-Shachar subtly reflects the reverence for God's hand in the natural world and the hope associated with the breaking of a new day.
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