the same as שַׁאֲרָה; Sheerah, an Israelitess; Sherah.
Transliteration:Sheʼĕrâh
Pronunciation:sheh-er-aw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term שֶׁאֱרָה (Sheʼĕrâh), Strong's number `{{H7609}}`, is a proper noun, specifically a personal name. Its base definition identifies it as "Sheerah, an Israelitess," and notes its identity as "the same as שַׁאֲרָה." As a proper noun, its primary meaning is its referent: the individual named Sheerah. While proper nouns often carry etymological significance, the precise meaning of this name is not explicitly detailed in the biblical text. However, its connection to the root שׁאר (sha'ar), which often relates to "remainder," "remnant," or "flesh/kin," might subtly suggest concepts of enduring legacy or familial connection. Nevertheless, for a proper noun, the semantic range is limited to its function as an identifier.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Sheerah (שֶׁאֱרָה) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in [[1 Chronicles 7:24]]. This verse is situated within the extensive genealogies of the tribes of Israel, specifically focusing on the descendants of Ephraim. The passage reads: "His daughter was Sheerah, who built Lower and Upper Beth-horon and Uzzen-sheerah."
The inclusion of Sheerah in this male-dominated genealogical record is highly significant. Genealogies in ancient Israel primarily traced patrilineal descent, and the mention of women, especially with specific accomplishments, is relatively rare. Her appearance here highlights her exceptional contribution. The text explicitly credits her with the construction of three cities: Lower Beth-horon, Upper Beth-horon, and Uzzen-sheerah. The Beth-horons were strategically important towns, controlling a major pass from the coastal plain to the central hill country. Uzzen-sheerah, meaning "the ear (or portion) of Sheerah," was likely a city named after her, further emphasizing her foundational role. This brief but impactful mention underscores her agency, leadership, and tangible contribution to the tribal inheritance and the settlement of the land.
### Related Words & Concepts
As noted in its base definition, שֶׁאֱרָה (Sheʼĕrâh) is linked to שַׁאֲרָה. While not a distinct Strong's entry, this connection points to a common linguistic root, שׁאר (shin-aleph-resh). This root is foundational to several Hebrew words, including:
* `{{H7604}}` שְׁאֵרִית (she'erith), meaning "remnant" or "residue."
* `{{H7611}}` שְׁאָר (she'ar), also meaning "remnant" or "rest."
While it is speculative, the name Sheerah could potentially evoke themes of leaving a "remainder" or "legacy" through her building activities, thereby establishing a lasting presence.
Beyond etymological connections, Sheerah's story relates to broader biblical concepts:
* **Genealogies:** Her inclusion challenges the typical male-centric focus of biblical genealogies, drawing attention to individual contributions regardless of gender.
* **Women in Leadership/Action:** Sheerah stands out as an active builder and founder, a role more commonly attributed to men in the ancient Near East. Her actions demonstrate a capacity for significant public contribution.
* **Settlement and Inheritance:** Her city-building activities are crucial to the establishment and security of the tribe of Ephraim within the promised land, reflecting the fulfillment of God's covenant with Israel.
### Theological Significance
The mention of Sheerah, the daughter of Ephraim, carries profound theological significance. Her story, though brief, serves as a powerful testament to:
* **God's Use of All Individuals:** The divine narrative consistently demonstrates God's ability and willingness to use diverse individuals, including women, in significant ways to accomplish His purposes. Sheerah's inclusion in a sacred lineage underscores that her contributions were divinely recognized and valued.
* **The Value of Practical Contribution:** Her act of building cities is a concrete demonstration of faithful stewardship and the establishment of order and infrastructure within the nascent Israelite society. This highlights the importance of practical, tangible work in God's kingdom.
* **Challenging Societal Norms:** In a patriarchal society, Sheerah's prominent role as a city-builder offers a counter-narrative, suggesting that God's plan can transcend conventional gender roles and expectations. Her example affirms the potential for women to exercise leadership, creativity, and significant influence in the community. Her legacy of building enduring structures speaks to the lasting impact of those who contribute to the flourishing of God's people and the land.
### Summary
שֱֶׁאֱרָה (Sheʼĕrâh), Strong's number `{{H7609}}`, is a unique proper noun referring to a daughter of Ephraim, mentioned only in [[1 Chronicles 7:24]]. Her significance lies not in a broad semantic range but in her specific, singular biblical appearance. She is uniquely credited with building the strategically important cities of Lower Beth-horon, Upper Beth-horon, and Uzzen-sheerah. Her inclusion in a patriarchal genealogy highlights her exceptional agency and contribution to the tribe of Ephraim's settlement and infrastructure. Theologically, Sheerah's story underscores God's valuing of individual contributions, regardless of gender, and the importance of practical acts of building and establishing community within His divine plan. Her legacy serves as a quiet but powerful testament to the impactful role women could play in ancient Israel.
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