### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **sharshâh**, represented by `{{H8331}}`, means **a chain**. Derived from a root meaning to be rooted or linked, its single appearance in scripture describes a specific, crafted object. It is used just **1 time** in **1 unique verse**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H8331}}` is found in the instructions for creating the high priest's garments. In [[Exodus 28:22]], God commands the creation of **chains** for the **breastplate** `{{H2833}}`. These were not ordinary chains, but were to be intricately made as part of a **wreathen** `{{H5688}}` **work** `{{H4639}}` crafted from **pure** `{{H2889}}` **gold** `{{H2091}}`, highlighting their sacred purpose and value.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of this unique term:
* `{{H2833}}` **chôshen** (breastplate): This is the sacred gorget of the high priest upon which the `{{H8331}}` **chains** were to be placed. It was considered a "holy garment" [[Exodus 28:4]] and held the Urim and Thummim.
* `{{H5688}}` **ʻăbôth** (something intwined... wreathen chain): This word describes the style of the `{{H8331}}` chain, signifying a "wreathen work". This term is also used for the cords binding a sacrifice to the altar [[Psalms 118:27]] and the "bands of love" God uses to draw His people [[Hosea 11:4]].
* `{{H4639}}` **maʻăseh** (an action... a product... work): This word emphasizes that the chains were a specific **work** or product to be made according to divine instruction. The term is broadly used for human labor, deeds, and even God's own "marvellous works" [[Psalms 139:14]].
* `{{H2889}}` **ṭâhôwr** (pure): This specifies the quality of the gold used for the chains. Its meaning extends from physical purity to moral and ceremonial cleanness, as in a "clean heart" [[Psalms 51:10]] or God's "purer eyes" [[Habakkuk 1:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H8331}}` is tied to its specific function in the Tabernacle worship system.
* **Symbol of Connection:** As chains, they physically connected different parts of the high priest's ephod and **breastplate** `{{H2833}}`, symbolizing the integrity and interconnectedness of the sacred office.
* **Mandated Purity:** The explicit requirement that the chains be made of **pure** `{{H2889}}` **gold** `{{H2091}}` underscores the standard of holiness God requires for objects and people dedicated to His service. This reflects the greater spiritual reality that God desires purity in His people.
* **Divine Craftsmanship:** The instruction to **make** `{{H6213}}` these chains was a divine command, part of the detailed pattern for the priestly garments. This act of creation was a **work** `{{H4639}}` of obedience, reflecting the greater theme of humanity fulfilling God's designs.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8331}}` **sharshâh** is a highly specific term whose importance comes from its singular, significant context. It refers to the wreathen gold **chains** on the high priest's **breastplate**. Though rare, this word contributes to the biblical theme of holiness, showing how even small, detailed components of worship were divinely specified to reflect purity, value, and sacred purpose.
TRV