The Hebrew word Shâlishâh, represented by H8031, refers to Shalisha, a place in Palestine. Derived from a root meaning "trebled land," it appears just 1 time in a single verse in the entire Bible. Its significance is purely geographical, marking a specific territory in the biblical narrative.
The sole use of H8031 is found in the account of Saul's search for his father's lost donkeys. In 1 Samuel 9:4, the narrative states that Saul and his servant "passed through the land of Shalisha, but they found them not." This location is one of several territories they traversed in their unsuccessful search, highlighting a specific point on their journey before their pivotal encounter with the prophet Samuel.
The context of Shalisha's only mention is enriched by the words used alongside it:
- H5674 ʻâbar (to cross over): This verb describes the action of Saul's journey, as he "passed through" Shalisha. The term is used widely for any transition, such as God's people passing through waters Isaiah 43:2 or calamities being "overpast" Psalms 57:1.
- H776 ʼerets (land): This noun specifies Shalisha as a "land" or country. It is a foundational word, used for the physical earth created by God Genesis 1:1 and for the specific territories where His people live and act 2 Chronicles 7:14.
- H4672 mâtsâʼ (to find): This word describes the outcome of the search in the land of Shalisha: the donkeys were not "found" there 1 Samuel 9:4. Figuratively, this word is used in the call to seek the Lord while He may be "found" Isaiah 55:6.
While H8031 itself is a simple place name, its narrative context points to broader theological ideas through its associated words.
- The Nature of Seeking: The journey through Shalisha is part of a frustrating search. This act of seeking is given spiritual weight elsewhere in scripture, as when the prophets call Israel to seek the LORD and "find" Him Jeremiah 29:13.
- Perseverance Through Place: Saul had to "pass through" (ʻâbar) Shalisha to continue his journey. This verb is also used to describe enduring trials with God's help Isaiah 43:2 and waiting for indignation to be "overpast" Isaiah 26:20, suggesting that traversing physical locations can mirror the spiritual journey through hardship.
- God's Sovereignty Over Land: The "land" (ʼerets) of Shalisha is a specific, tangible place where God's larger plan is unfolding, even in a seemingly mundane search. The same word for this small region is used for the entire earth over which God is exalted Psalms 46:10.
In summary, Shâlishâh H8031 is a geographical marker for the land of Shalisha. Although it appears only once, its context within Saul's journey in 1 Samuel 9:4 is significant. The actions of passing through this land and failing to find what was sought connect to the important biblical themes of seeking, perseverance, and God's sovereign plan unfolding in the real-world geography of the land.
TRV