### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun shillêsh (שִׁלֵּשׁ, `{{H8029}}`) is directly derived from the root shālash (שָׁלַשׁ, `{{H7991}}`), which fundamentally conveys the idea of "threeness," "to do a third time," or "to divide into three." As a noun, shillêsh specifically refers to a "descendant of the third degree," meaning a great-grandchild. More broadly, it can denote the "third generation" in a lineage. The term encapsulates both a numerical progression and a familial relationship, emphasizing the extension of a family line beyond immediate offspring to the succeeding generation. Its semantic range is tightly bound to the concept of generational continuity and the implications that flow through a family over time.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term shillêsh (שִׁלֵּשׁ, `{{H8029}}`) appears in three key passages within the Hebrew Bible, each shedding light on its significance:
* In [[Exodus 20:5]] and [[Deuteronomy 5:9]], shillêsh is found within the Ten Commandments, specifically in the declaration concerning God's jealousy and His visitation of "the iniquity of the fathers on the children to the third and fourth generation of those who hate Me." Here, shillêsh precisely identifies the "third generation" as recipients of the consequences of ancestral idolatry. The context is a severe warning against worshipping other gods, underscoring the profound and lasting impact of spiritual rebellion across family lines. This is not arbitrary punishment, but a recognition of the perpetuation of sinful patterns and the corporate solidarity within a family unit.
* In [[Job 42:16]], following his restoration, Job is blessed to see his "sons and his sons' sons, four generations." While the Masoretic Text uses a different construction for "four generations," the concept of seeing descendants to the third degree (great-grandchildren) aligns perfectly with the semantic range of shillêsh. The Septuagint, in fact, renders this phrase in a way that more directly implies seeing descendants "unto the third generation." In this context, seeing one's great-grandchildren signifies a complete and abundant restoration of Job's fortune, family, and longevity, a profound blessing from God.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **shālash (שָׁלַשׁ, `{{H7991}}`):** The foundational root from which shillêsh is derived. This root's meaning of "to be three" or "to do a third time" directly informs the numerical and sequential aspect of shillêsh.
* **shālish (שָׁלִישׁ, `{{H7990}}`):** While also derived from the root shālash, this term often refers to a "third part," a "measure," or a "high officer" (perhaps one of three or a third-ranked commander). Though numerically related, its semantic field diverges from the generational focus of shillêsh.
* **Generational Consequences:** The concept of shillêsh is inextricably linked to the biblical themes of intergenerational blessings and curses. It highlights the ripple effect of human choices, whether in sin or righteousness, through successive generations. This connects to broader covenant theology and the enduring nature of promises and warnings.
* **Lineage and Posterity:** The word underscores the profound importance of descendants and the continuation of a family line in biblical thought, a central element in divine promises made to patriarchs like Abraham.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of shillêsh is substantial, particularly in its dual application of judgment and blessing. In the Decalogue (Exodus 20:5, Deuteronomy 5:9), its use underscores God's absolute holiness and His righteous judgment against idolatry. The visitation of iniquity to the shillêsh (third generation) and beyond is not an arbitrary punishment of the innocent, but rather a solemn declaration that the consequences of persistent rebellion and the perpetuation of sinful patterns will be experienced by successive generations who continue in that rebellion. It serves as a stark warning about the long-term, corporate impact of spiritual choices.
Conversely, in the narrative of Job (Job 42:16), the implicit presence of shillêsh in the blessing of seeing one's great-grandchildren signifies profound divine favor, restoration, and a flourishing lineage. In a culture where children were seen as a blessing and longevity a sign of God's grace, reaching the third generation of descendants was the epitome of a full and blessed life. This demonstrates God's redemptive power, His ability to reverse misfortune, and His ultimate faithfulness to those who endure.
Thus, shillêsh encapsulates the enduring nature of God's engagement with humanity, revealing both the solemnity of His justice in the face of rebellion and the joyous abundance of His grace and blessing upon faithfulness, with both manifesting across the tapestry of generations.
### Summary
shillêsh (שִׁלֵּשׁ, `{{H8029}}`) is a Hebrew noun derived from shālash (שָׁלַשׁ, `{{H7991}}`), signifying a "descendant of the third degree" or the "third generation." Its biblical usage reveals a profound theological significance related to intergenerational impact. In the Decalogue (Exodus 20:5, Deuteronomy 5:9), it highlights God's righteous judgment, wherein the consequences of persistent idolatry extend to the shillêsh and beyond, underscoring the lasting effects of sin. Conversely, in Job 42:16, the concept of seeing one's great-grandchildren (the shillêsh) represents a supreme blessing of restoration, longevity, and a flourishing lineage, demonstrating God's abundant grace. The word, therefore, serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring nature of both divine judgment and divine blessing, manifesting across the generations of a family line.
TRV