עֵ֫שֶׁק (e.sheq)
e.sheq
Eshek
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Eshek appears in the Hebrew Bible as a proper noun for a specific individual from the tribe of Benjamin during the period of the Divided Monarchy. He is recorded in 1 Chronicles 8, where genealogical lists trace his lineage back to Saul. The text identifies him as the son of Binea and the brother of Raphah and Azel, while also noting that he was the father of Ulam, Jeush, and Eliphelet.
Lexical sources indicate that the name means "oppressor" or "tyrant." This meaning stands in stark contrast to his royal ancestry, as he is described as a late descendant of King Saul. The presence of such a name within a royal family line offers a poignant historical detail, reflecting the complex social and political realities of the time without offering moral judgment on the individual himself.
Eshek is mentioned only once in Scripture, specifically in 1 Chronicles 8:39. Some translations or scholarly notes suggest this name may be an alternative form for Eleasah, another Benjamite figure, though the text treats them as distinct entries in the genealogy. His brief appearance serves primarily to preserve the record of Benjaminite family structures during a turbulent era in Israel’s history.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Names in Scripture often carry meanings that shape how we understand a person’s role or destiny. The name Eshek, appearing only once in 1 Chronicles 8:39, translates to "oppressor" or "tyrant." This is striking because he is listed among the descendants of King Saul, a royal line known for its dignity and strength. It reminds us that even within families marked by leadership and honor, individuals may carry names that reflect difficult realities or harsh circumstances.
Yet this single mention does not condemn Eshek. Instead, it preserves his place in God’s careful record of Israel’s tribes. Genealogies like this one show that every person, regardless of their name’s meaning, is part of a larger story. God values each life and keeps track of every lineage, ensuring no one is forgotten in the unfolding of His purposes.
When you read these lists, consider how God honors diversity within His people. Even names with heavy meanings are included in His sacred text. This offers comfort: your background, struggles, or family history do not disqualify you from being part of God’s plan. He writes every chapter, turning even the heaviest names into witnesses of His faithfulness.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Eshek1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- עֵ֣שֶׁק1×
Key Verses
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I Chronicles 8:39
The sons of Eshek his brother: Ulam his firstborn, Jeush the second, and Eliphelet the third.
This verse uniquely identifies Eshek as a brother in the royal line of Benjamin, anchoring his identity within Saul’s family structure.