שַׂרְסְכִים

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The word Sarçᵉkîym, represented by H8310, is a name of foreign derivation. It refers to Sarsekim, a Babylonian general. This name appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, marking a specific individual in a historical account.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

The sole appearance of H8310 is in Jeremiah 39:3. In this passage, Sarsechim is named as one of the "princes of the king of Babylon" who came into Jerusalem and sat in the middle gate. He is part of a group of high-ranking Babylonian officials present during this pivotal moment in Israel's history.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related words help clarify the context of Sarsechim's role and rank:

• H8269 sar: This word means "a head person (of any rank or class); captain (that had rule), chief (captain), general, governor, keeper, lord,(-task-)master, prince(-ipal), ruler, steward." Sarsechim is listed among the princes H8269 of Babylon Jeremiah 39:3.
• H4428 melek: Defined as "a king; king, royal," this term identifies the ultimate authority whom Sarsechim served, the king of Babylon Jeremiah 39:3.
• H7249 Rab-Çârîyç: Meaning "chief chamberlain; Rab-Saris, a Babylonian official; Rab-saris," this is the title of another official listed alongside Sarsechim Jeremiah 39:3.
• H7248 Rab-Mâg: Defined as "chief Magian; Rab-Mag, a Babylonian official; Rab-mag," this is another title for an official present at the same event Jeremiah 39:3.

Theological Significance

The narrative weight of H8310 is tied directly to its historical context. It is significant for several reasons:

• Historical Specificity: The naming of Sarsechim provides a specific, historical detail to the account of Jerusalem's fall, grounding the event in a tangible list of its conquerors Jeremiah 39:3.
• Structure of Power: His presence among the other princes H8269, such as Rabsaris H7249 and Rabmag H7248, illustrates the organized command structure of the Babylonian army serving their king H4428.
• Symbol of Conquest: The entry of Sarsechim and his fellow commanders into the city gate represents the formal and final capture of Jerusalem, marking a critical moment of judgment and exile for the people of Judah Jeremiah 39:3.

Summary

In summary, H8310 is not a theological term but a proper name marking a specific historical figure. As Sarsekim, a Babylonian general, his single mention in scripture serves to document the key individuals involved in the conquest of Jerusalem. The name adds a layer of historical authenticity to the biblical narrative, identifying one of the commanders who executed the judgment upon the city.