The Hebrew word Sheresh, represented by H8329, is the proper name of an Israelite man. The term is defined as the same as שֶׁרֶשׁ and is used for Sharesh. It appears only 1 time in a single verse, marking its specific use in a genealogical context.
The sole appearance of H8329 is within the genealogical records of the tribe of Manasseh. In 1 Chronicles 7:16, Sheresh is identified as the son H1121 of Machir H4353, born to Machir's wife H802, Maachah H4601. His familial relationships are precisely documented: his brother H251 was Peresh H6570, and his own sons H1121 were Ulam H198 and Rakem H7552. This places him firmly within the lineage of Machir, a significant figure in the history of Manasseh.
Several related words from Sheresh's immediate context help define his place in the biblical record:
- H4353 Mâkîyr: Defined as salesman; Makir, an Israelite, this is the name of Sheresh's father. Machir is a prominent ancestor, identified as the firstborn of Manasseh and the father of Gilead Joshua 17:1.
- H251 ʼâch: Meaning a brother, this term establishes the direct relationship between Sheresh and Peresh, clarifying the family structure within the genealogy 1 Chronicles 7:16.
- H6570 Peresh: This name, defined as Peresh, an Israelite, belongs to Sheresh's brother. He is mentioned alongside Sheresh in the same verse, underscoring their shared parentage.
- H198 ʼÛwlâm: Meaning solitary; Ulam, the name of two Israelites, this is one of Sheresh's sons. The descendants of Ulam are later noted as being "mighty men of valour" 1 Chronicles 8:40.
- H7552 Reqem: Defined as versi-color; Rekem, this is the name of Sheresh's other son, completing the record of his immediate descendants 1 Chronicles 7:16.
The theological significance of H8329 lies not in the name itself but in its inclusion within the biblical genealogies.
- Preservation of Lineage: The meticulous recording of names like Sheresh demonstrates the importance of family lines in Israel. It affirms that each individual had a place within the tribal structure of Manasseh, which was vital for inheritance and identity.
- Covenant Continuity: By being named, Sheresh is documented as part of God's covenant people. His lineage through Machir H4353 connects to Manasseh and Joseph, highlighting the historical continuity of the Israelite tribes as promised by God Genesis 50:23.
- Historical Record: The inclusion of specific individuals such as Sheresh, his brother H251 Peresh H6570, and his sons anchors the biblical narrative in a detailed, factual record, reinforcing the historical integrity of the chronicles.
In summary, Sheresh H8329 is a proper name that appears once in scripture to identify a man in the lineage of Manasseh. Though not a major biblical character, his mention in 1 Chronicles 7:16 is vital to the function of Old Testament genealogies. The name Sheresh contributes to the broader biblical themes of covenant faithfulness, tribal identity, and the careful preservation of the historical record of God's people.
TRV