### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Sᵉʻôrîym**, represented by `{{H8188}}`, identifies **Seorim, an Israelite**. This name is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular appearance places it within a very specific and structured context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical reference to **Sᵉʻôrîym** is found in a list detailing the organization of priestly divisions. In [[1 Chronicles 24:8]], the text assigns the third course to Harim and the **fourth** `{{H7243}}` to **Seorim** `{{H8188}}`. This context establishes **Seorim** as the name associated with the head of the fourth of the twenty-four priestly courses designated for temple service.
### Related Words & Concepts
The words used alongside **Sᵉʻôrîym** `{{H8188}}` in its only appearance provide important context:
* `{{H7992}}` **shᵉlîyshîy** (third; ... third (part, rank, time)): This word establishes the ordinal rank of the course immediately preceding **Seorim** [[1 Chronicles 24:8]]. It is frequently used to mark significant days, such as the **third** day of purification [[Numbers 19:19]] or the **third** day when God descended on the mount [[Exodus 19:16]].
* `{{H7243}}` **rᵉbîyʻîy** (fourth; ... fourth (part)): This ordinal number directly qualifies **Seorim**, identifying its position in the priestly order. The term is used elsewhere to denote important time markers, such as the **fourth** generation that would return from affliction [[Genesis 15:16]] and the **fourth** year of Solomon's reign when the temple's construction began [[1 Kings 6:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of **Sᵉʻôrîym** `{{H8188}}` is derived entirely from its context within the sacred organization of Israel's worship.
* **Inclusion in Divine Order:** The mention of **Seorim** in the priestly lots [[1 Chronicles 24:8]] affirms its place within the divinely appointed structure for ministering before the LORD. It is a part of the holy administration of the temple.
* **A Place in the Fourth Lot:** Being designated as the **fourth** `{{H7243}}` course connects the name to an ordinal used to mark key moments of promise and fulfillment in Israel's history, including the **fourth** generation of Jehu's line on the throne [[2 Kings 15:12]] and the start of temple construction in the **fourth** year of Solomon's reign [[1 Kings 6:1]].
### Summary
In summary, **Sᵉʻôrîym** `{{H8188}}` is a proper name identifying an Israelite whose family was assigned the **fourth** priestly course. While appearing only once, its context in [[1 Chronicles 24:8]] is significant. It highlights the meticulous organization of temple service and connects this specific priestly line to the number **fourth** `{{H7243}}`, an ordinal tied to foundational moments in the biblical narrative. The name serves as a reminder of the specific and ordered roles individuals and families played in the worship of God.
TRV