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.
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.
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.
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.
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