### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word שֶׁלֶף (sheleph, `{{H8026}}`) is exclusively used as a proper noun in the biblical text, specifically a personal name. Its base definition indicates derivation from the verb שָׁלַף (shalaph, `{{H7971}}`). This root verb carries the primary meaning "to draw out," "to unsheathe," or "to extract." Therefore, the name Sheleph likely conveys an etymological sense of "one who is drawn out" or "extracted." As a proper noun, its semantic range is confined to its identity as an individual within the biblical genealogies, rather than a concept or object.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name שֶׁלֶף (sheleph, `{{H8026}}`) appears twice in the Masoretic Text, both instances occurring within genealogical lists.
* [[Genesis 10:26]]: "Joktan fathered Almodad, Sheleph, Hazarmaveth, Jerah," and subsequent names. Here, Sheleph is enumerated as the second son of Joktan, who is a descendant of Eber, himself a son of Shem. This places Sheleph within the early post-diluvian lineage, contributing to the "Table of Nations" that describes the peopling of the earth.
* [[1 Chronicles 1:20]]: "Joktan fathered Almodad, Sheleph, Hazarmaveth, Jerah," and subsequent names. This passage provides a parallel account to the Genesis record, reiterating Sheleph's position within the lineage of Joktan.
In both contexts, Sheleph is presented solely as a name within a list of progenitors. The biblical narrative provides no further details about his life, character, or any specific actions. His significance is confined to his role in establishing the historical continuity of generations and the ethnic divisions of the ancient world.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word is the verbal root שָׁלַף (shalaph, `{{H7971}}`), from which Sheleph is derived. This verb is widely used in the Hebrew Bible with various applications of "drawing out":
* Drawing a sword from its sheath (e.g., [[Exodus 15:9]], [[Numbers 22:23]], [[Judges 8:10]]).
* Drawing off sandals or shoes (e.g., [[Ruth 4:7]], [[Psalm 60:8]], [[Psalm 108:9]]).
* Drawing out a peg or stake (e.g., [[Judges 3:22]]).
* Drawing out a fish with a hook (e.g., [[Job 41:1]] [Hebrew 40:25]).
The etymological connection suggests that the name Sheleph may have signified "one who was drawn out" or "extracted," perhaps alluding to circumstances surrounding his birth or a characteristic. However, without further biblical narrative, this remains a speculative interpretation of the name's underlying meaning. Conceptually, Sheleph is intrinsically linked to the broader biblical theme of genealogies, which serve to underscore divine faithfulness, covenant continuity, and the unfolding of God's plan through successive generations. As part of the "Table of Nations," he represents a branch of early humanity.
### Theological Significance
As a proper noun embedded within the biblical genealogies, Sheleph's theological significance is primarily found in his inclusion within the divinely preserved historical record. His presence in both Genesis and Chronicles highlights the meticulous nature of Scripture's account of human origins and descent, which is foundational for understanding God's covenantal dealings with humanity. The "Table of Nations" ([[Genesis 10]]), where Sheleph is listed, is crucial for affirming the common ancestry of all humanity, tracing all peoples back to Noah. This universal origin provides a theological basis for the unity of humankind and the universal scope of God's redemptive plan. While Sheleph himself is not a protagonist in any specific theological narrative, his existence, as recorded, contributes to the comprehensive historical framework through which God worked to bring about His purposes, ultimately leading to the lineage of Abraham and the Messiah. His inclusion, even as a seemingly minor figure, underscores the truth that every individual has a place within God's overarching historical and redemptive design.
### Summary
שֶׁלֶף (sheleph, `{{H8026}}`) is a proper noun, a personal name that appears twice in the Hebrew Bible ([[Genesis 10:26]], [[1 Chronicles 1:20]]). He is identified as a son of Joktan and a descendant of Shem, thus being part of the early post-diluvian genealogical records known as the "Table of Nations." The name is derived from the Hebrew verbal root שָׁלַף (shalaph, `{{H7971}}`), meaning "to draw out" or "to extract," suggesting a possible etymological meaning for the name itself. Although no specific narrative or actions are attributed to Sheleph in Scripture, his inclusion in these crucial genealogical lists is theologically significant. It affirms the unity of human origin and the meticulous preservation of lineage within God's historical and redemptive plan, demonstrating the foundational continuity through which divine purposes unfold across generations.
TRV