שִׁילֹה (shi.loh)
shi.loh
`tribute`
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 proper noun Shiloh appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in Genesis 49:10 within Jacob’s blessing to Judah. Its identity is debated among scholars because the etymology is uncertain. Some translations render it as a personal name, suggesting "the one to whom it belongs," while others interpret it as a common noun meaning "tribute" or "peace." This ambiguity reflects the difficulty of translating ancient Near Eastern terms that may carry political or theological weight.
The verse itself is pivotal for understanding Messianic expectations in Jewish and Christian traditions. The phrase "until Shiloh comes" has been read by some as pointing to a future ruler from Judah’s line, while others see it as referring to the stability of the tribe or the eventual submission of other peoples. Because the text offers no further context, interpreters rely on linguistic parallels and historical setting to determine whether the term denotes a person, an object, or a state of being.
Despite its single occurrence, Shiloh remains significant in biblical studies for illustrating how lexical uncertainty can shape theological interpretation. The word’s placement in Jacob’s prophecy highlights Judah’s enduring leadership, regardless of whether "Shiloh" is understood as a title, a name, or a concept. Its rarity underscores the importance of careful exegesis when dealing with isolated terms in Scripture.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Genesis 49:10 stands as one of the most profound declarations in Scripture regarding leadership and destiny. Jacob’s blessing to Judah promises that authority will remain within his tribe until a specific figure arrives. While scholars debate whether the word Shiloh refers to a person, a state of peace, or tribute, the core message remains clear: true governance finds its fulfillment in God’s chosen line.
For believers, this verse offers assurance that history is not random but directed toward a divine purpose. The scepter and ruler’s staff symbolize enduring order amidst changing times. Whether understood as a title for the Messiah or a reference to ultimate submission, the text points to a hope that transcends political instability. It invites us to trust in the reliability of God’s promises across generations.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Shiloh1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- שִׁיל֔וֹ1×
Key Verses
-
Genesis 49:10
The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff from between his feet, until he comes to whom it belongs. The obedience of the peoples will be to him.
This occurrence anchors Messianic expectation by linking Judah’s enduring leadership to the arrival of one who receives universal obedience.