The Hebrew word Sheʼĕrâh, represented by H7609, is the proper name Sherah, identifying a specific Israelitess. This name is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse within the biblical text.
The single appearance of H7609 is in a genealogical record where Sherah is identified as a daughter H1323. Her significance is tied directly to her actions, as the text states she built H1129 three specific locations: "Bethhoron the nether, and the upper, and Uzzensherah" 1 Chronicles 7:24. This attribution of building cities makes her a notable figure in the passage.
Several words from the verse in which H7609 appears provide its direct context:
- H1323 bath (a daughter): This word establishes Sherah's identity and familial relationship within the genealogy 1 Chronicles 7:24. The term is used broadly for daughters, as well as figuratively for a town or a people, like the "daughter of Zion" Isaiah 62:11.
- H1129 bânâh (to build): This verb describes Sherah's primary accomplishment. The act of building is a significant theme, used for constructing everything from a house Proverbs 14:1 to the rebuilding of a city after its ruin Jeremiah 30:18.
- H1032 Bêyth Chôwrôwn (house of hollowness; Beth-horon): This is the name of one of the towns Sherah built, which had both an "upper" and a "nether" section 1 Chronicles 7:24.
- H8481 tachtôwn (bottommost; lower(-est), nether(-most)): This adjective specifies the "nether" or lower part of Beth-horon that Sherah constructed 1 Chronicles 7:24.
- H5945 ʻelyôwn (an elevation, i.e. (adj.) lofty; upper(-most)): This adjective describes the "upper" part of Beth-horon and is also used elsewhere as a title for God, the "most High" Psalms 91:1.
- H242 ʼUzzên Sheʼĕrâh (plot of Sheerah; Uzzen-sherah): This place name, meaning "plot of Sheerah," directly incorporates her own name, permanently linking her to the town she founded 1 Chronicles 7:24.
While appearing only once, the context of H7609 highlights several notable aspects:
- A Legacy in Building: Sherah's identity is preserved through her work as a builder H1129. This act connects her to a theme of establishing and repairing, a role also attributed to figures like King Solomon 1 Kings 9:17 and even God himself Psalms 127:1.
- Personal Commemoration: The naming of Uzzen-sherah H242, or "plot of Sheerah," ensures her legacy. Her name is physically and historically memorialized in the land itself.
- Female Agency: The passage distinguishes Sherah not merely by her lineage as a daughter H1323 but by her own significant accomplishments in founding and building multiple settlements 1 Chronicles 7:24.
In summary, H7609 Sheʼĕrâh is the name of a singular but significant woman in the Old Testament. Although mentioned only once, she is remembered as a daughter who became a prolific builder. Her legacy is cemented by the towns she constructed, one of which, Uzzen-sherah, carries her name, marking her as a founder with a lasting impact recorded in scripture.
TRV