אֶ֫שֶׁךְ (e.shekh)
e.shekh
testicle
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun e.shekh refers specifically to a testicle, appearing only once in the entire Old Testament at Leviticus 21:20. In this context, it is part of a list of physical defects that would disqualify a male descendant of Aaron from serving as a priest on the altar. The term is stark and biological, focusing on anatomical wholeness rather than metaphorical or spiritual states.
Some modern lexicons note a rare secondary meaning of "stone" in this single occurrence, likely due to the visual similarity between the organ and a small stone or pebble. However, the primary and undisputed sense in Scripture is the reproductive gland. Its solitary use highlights the ancient Israelite concern for ritual purity and physical perfection in those who approached the holy space.
Translators consistently render this word as "testicle" to preserve its literal meaning. The verse does not discuss moral character or spiritual maturity, but rather the physical condition of the worshipper. This specific requirement underscores the distinct boundary between the sacred duties of the priesthood and the general population in ancient Israelite religion.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word e.shekh appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in Leviticus 21:20. It refers to a specific physical condition that disqualified a priest from serving at the altar. This single mention highlights the ancient Israelite focus on ritual purity and the symbolic wholeness required for those approaching God in the sanctuary.
For modern readers, this verse can feel distant or even uncomfortable. Yet it reveals a profound truth about how sacred spaces were treated in biblical times. The requirement was not about moral worthiness but about representing the community before God with a body free from visible defects. It reminds us that holiness involves both inner character and outward respect for the sacred.
Understanding this word helps us appreciate the seriousness with which ancient Israelites viewed worship. It invites reflection on how we approach God today, recognizing that while physical perfection is no longer required, reverence and integrity remain central to our faith.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- testicle1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- אָֽשֶׁךְ\׃1×
Key Verses
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Leviticus 21:20
or hunchbacked, or a dwarf, or one who has a defect in his eye, or an itching disease, or scabs, or who has damaged testicles.
This verse uses the word to specify a physical defect that barred Aaronic priests from altar service, emphasizing ritual purity over moral status.