### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Shalleketh**, represented by `{{H7996}}`, is the proper name for a specific **gate in Jerusalem**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, identifying a key location in the organizational structure of the temple and its services.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H7996}}` is in the list of assignments for temple porters. The lot for the **westward** `{{H4628}}` position fell to Shuppim and Hosah, whose post was at the **gate Shallecheth**, located by the **causeway** `{{H4546}}` of the going up [[1 Chronicles 26:16]]. This verse establishes it as a physical gate with a designated guard duty, described as "ward against ward," demonstrating the meticulous order of the Levitical service.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the location and function of the gate Shalleketh:
* `{{H8179}}` **shaʻar** (gate): Shalleketh is explicitly identified as a **gate**, which is an opening, door, or port [[1 Chronicles 26:16]]. Gates are frequently mentioned as places of entry and security, such as the gates of Jerusalem [[Jeremiah 17:27]].
* `{{H4546}}` **mᵉçillâh** (causeway): The gate was situated by a **causeway**, defined as a thoroughfare, staircase, or highway [[1 Chronicles 26:16]]. This term is also used prophetically for the "highway for our God" to be prepared in the desert [[Isaiah 40:3]].
* `{{H4628}}` **maʻărâb** (west): The assignment for this gate was on the **west** side, indicating its geographical position [[1 Chronicles 26:16]]. This directional term is also used to describe the breadth of God's redemptive work, gathering His people from the east and the **west** [[Isaiah 43:5]].
* `{{H4929}}` **mishmâr** (ward): The duty at this gate is described as **ward** against **ward**, signifying a guard post, watch, or office [[1 Chronicles 26:16]]. The word can also refer to diligence, as in keeping one's heart with all **diligence** [[Proverbs 4:23]].
### Theological Significance
While mentioned only once, the context of `{{H7996}}` carries significance regarding the worship and order of the temple.
* **Order in Sacred Service:** The specific naming of the **gate Shallecheth** and its assignment by lot highlights the meticulous organization and divine order involved in serving at the house of the Lord [[1 Chronicles 26:16]].
* **Guarding Holy Ground:** The gate's function as a guarded post ("ward against ward") underscores the importance of protecting the sanctity of the temple area. Gates like **Shallecheth** `{{H8179}}` were crucial points of entry and security.
* **Pathway of Ascent:** Its location "by the causeway of the going up" `{{H5927}}` suggests it was on a path of ascent, a route for worshippers to approach the sacred space [[1 Chronicles 26:16]]. The root word for "going up" (`ʻâlâh`) is used for ascending to the house of the LORD [[2 Kings 20:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7996}}` **Shalleketh** is the proper name of a gate on the west side of the temple complex. Though appearing in a single verse, its context reveals its importance as a designated, guarded entryway. The reference to it contributes to a broader picture of the careful and divinely ordered service required for the house of God, illustrating how even specific geographical details reinforce the sanctity and organization of worship.
TRV