### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **sheleph**, represented by `{{H8026}}`, is a proper name meaning **Sheleph, a son of Jokthan**. The base word suggests the concept of "extract." It is a rare term, appearing only **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible, exclusively within genealogical lists.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H8026}}` is used solely to identify an individual within a specific lineage. Both occurrences are identical, listing **Sheleph** as one of the sons of Joktan. This appears in the genealogies of Genesis [[Genesis 10:26]] and is later repeated for historical record in 1 Chronicles [[1 Chronicles 1:20]]. In these passages, **Sheleph** is named alongside his brothers, establishing his place within the family of Joktan.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are essential for understanding the context of `{{H8026}}`:
* `{{H3355}}` **Yoqṭân**: This is the name of Sheleph's father, defined as **Joktan, an Arabian patriarch**.
* `{{H3205}}` **yâlad**: This verb, meaning **to bear young; causatively, to beget;...to show lineage**, is used to establish the father-son relationship between Joktan and Sheleph [[Genesis 10:26]].
* `{{H486}}` **ʼAlmôwdâd**: The name of one of Sheleph's brothers, identified as **Almodad, a son of Joktan**.
* `{{H2700}}` **Chătsarmâveth**: The name of another brother, **Hazarmaveth**.
* `{{H3392}}` **Yerach**: The name of another brother, identified as **Jerah, an Arabian patriarch**.
### Theological Significance
While not having direct theological weight as a concept, the inclusion of `{{H8026}}` in scripture is significant for other reasons:
* **Genealogical Integrity:** The name **Sheleph** is a crucial component in the meticulous recording of patriarchal lineages. Its presence ensures the completeness of the list of Joktan's sons.
* **Historical Marker:** As a son of **Joktan** `{{H3355}}`, an "Arabian patriarch," Sheleph represents a link to the early history and settlement of peoples.
* **Narrative Preservation:** The repetition of this name and his lineage in both Genesis and 1 Chronicles highlights the importance placed on preserving the ancestral record for future generations ([[Genesis 10:26]], [[1 Chronicles 1:20]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8026}}` is a proper noun, **Sheleph**, rather than a conceptual term. Its sole function is to name one of the sons of **Joktan** in the Old Testament genealogies. The importance of the name lies not in its definition but in its role as a fixed point in the biblical record, documenting the lineage of an early patriarch and preserving a branch of human history as understood by the ancient Hebrews.
TRV