### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew place name **Timnath Chereç `{{H8556}}`**, also recorded as **Timnath-serah**, means "portion of (the) sun." This name appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible and refers to a specific location in Palestine. It is notable primarily for its direct connection to the life and legacy of Joshua.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H8556}}` is identified as the personal inheritance of Joshua. Following the division of the promised land, Joshua requested this specific city, and it was given to him according to the word of the LORD [[Joshua 19:50]]. The account states that he then built the city and dwelt there, making it his home after his long service leading Israel. Later, both Joshua and Judges record that he was buried within the border of this same inheritance, specifically in mount Ephraim on the north side of the hill of Gaash ([[Joshua 24:30]], [[Judges 2:9]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide deeper context for the significance of this location:
* `{{H5159}}` **nachălâh** (inheritance): This word signifies an estate, patrimony, or portion that is inherited. Timnath-serah is specifically called Joshua's **inheritance**, establishing it as his rightful portion [[Joshua 24:30]].
* `{{H1129}}` **bânâh** (to build): This root word means to build, repair, or set up. After receiving his inheritance, Joshua took action to **build** the city, showing his personal investment and establishment of the place [[Joshua 19:50]].
* `{{H5892}}` **ʻîyr** (city): This general term for a city or town is used to identify Timnath-serah as the specific **city** that Joshua asked for and was given by the LORD [[Joshua 19:50]].
* `{{H3427}}` **yâshab** (to dwell): This verb means to sit down, remain, or inhabit. Joshua's story with Timnath-serah culminates with him choosing **to dwell** there, signifying a place of rest and settlement [[Joshua 19:50]].
### Theological Significance
The story of `{{H8556}}` carries significant weight, illustrating several key themes.
* **A Reward for Faithfulness:** The city was given to Joshua according to the word of the LORD [[Joshua 19:50]] as his personal `{{H5159}}` inheritance after a lifetime of obedient service.
* **A Place of Settlement:** After decades of wandering and warfare, Joshua `{{H1129}}` built and `{{H3427}}` dwelt in this city, symbolizing the fulfillment of God's promise of rest for His people in the land.
* **A Lasting Legacy:** Timnath-serah became Joshua's final resting place, the site where he was `{{H6912}}` buried within the border of his own inheritance ([[Joshua 24:30]], [[Judges 2:9]]), cementing his connection to the land he helped conquer.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8556}}` is far more than a geographical marker. It is a symbol of a promise fulfilled and a life's work completed. As the inheritance requested, built, inhabited, and ultimately used as the burial site for Joshua, Timnath-serah stands as a powerful testament to the personal portion and rest that the LORD provides for his faithful servants.
TRV