### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shillêsh**, represented by `{{H8029}}`, defines a descendant of the **third** degree, specifically a great grandchild or the third generation. Derived from the root for "three," this term appears 5 times across 5 unique verses in the Bible. It is used to measure the extent of generational consequences and blessings.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H8029}}` is most frequently used to delineate the reach of God's judgment. As part of the Ten Commandments, God states He is a "jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the **third** and fourth generation of them that hate me" ([[Exodus 20:5]]; [[Deuteronomy 5:9]]). This principle is repeated in passages that also describe God's great mercy, clarifying that while He is forgiving, He will "by no means clear the guilty" and will visit iniquity to the **third** generation ([[Exodus 34:7]]; [[Numbers 14:18]]). In a contrasting, positive context, the word marks a moment of fulfillment, as "Joseph saw Ephraim's children of the **third** generation" [[Genesis 50:23]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the concept of generational lineage:
* `{{H7256}}` **ribbêaʻ** (fourth): This term is consistently paired with **shillêsh** to describe a descendant of the "fourth" generation. It appears alongside `{{H8029}}` in passages detailing the consequences of iniquity, extending the timeframe of accountability [[Exodus 20:5]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (son): As the word for "son" or "children," this is the foundational link in the generational chain. Divine judgment is visited "upon the children" `{{H1121}}` and their children's children, unto the **third** `{{H8029}}` and fourth generation [[Numbers 14:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8029}}` is significant in understanding divine justice and covenant.
* **Generational Consequence:** The use of `{{H8029}}` establishes that the effects of sin, particularly the sin of hating God, are not confined to an individual but can reverberate through a family line for a defined period [[Deuteronomy 5:9]].
* **Divine Character:** The term is used within key declarations of God's nature. He is both a "jealous God" who visits iniquity and a God who is "longsuffering, and of great mercy" [[Numbers 14:18]]. The "third generation" marker helps to frame the scope of His justice.
* **Covenant Blessing:** In its single positive usage, the term highlights the fulfillment of God's promises. Joseph living to see his great-grandchildren signifies a long life and the continuation of his lineage, a tangible blessing [[Genesis 50:23]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8029}}` is far more than a numerical designation. It is a critical term for understanding the biblical concepts of corporate accountability, the limits of divine judgment, and the tangible nature of covenant blessing. Whether defining the reach of wrath or the evidence of faithfulness, **shillêsh** illustrates how the actions of one generation have profound and lasting implications for those who follow.
TRV