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שֵׁשָׁן (she.shan)

she.shan

Sheshan

H8348 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 3 verses

N:N-M-P

Quick Reference

Language
Biblical Hebrew
Testament
Old Testament
Occurrences
3 verses
Root
—
Part of speech
N:N-M-P

Word Overview

The name Sheshan identifies a specific ancestor in the genealogy of Judah, appearing only three times in Scripture, primarily within the first chapter of 1 Chronicles. He is recorded as the son of Ishi and the father of Ahlai, placing him within the lineage of Hezron and Jerahmeel during the era of the Divided Monarchy.

Lexical sources indicate that Sheshan translates to "noble," a fitting designation for a man situated in the royal tribe’s family tree. While his personal story is not detailed in the biblical text, his inclusion in these records underscores the importance of lineage and heritage in preserving the history of Israel’s tribes.

As a proper noun, Sheshan serves as a structural link in the ancestral chains that lead toward King David. His brief mention highlights how ancient genealogies functioned not merely as lists of names, but as vital records of identity, continuity, and tribal belonging for the people of Judah.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The name Sheshan appears in the genealogies of Judah, linking generations from Hezron down to King David. Its meaning, often translated as "noble," reflects a heritage rooted in identity and continuity. These records were not just lists but vital markers of tribal belonging for ancient Israel.

One verse notes that Sheshan had no sons, only daughters. In this context, he gave his daughter in marriage to his Egyptian servant, Jarha. This act ensured his lineage continued through a new branch, showing how family ties were preserved even when direct heirs were absent.

For modern readers, Sheshan’s story reminds us that every name in Scripture matters. God’s plan unfolds through ordinary families and unexpected connections. His inclusion highlights the importance of heritage and the faithfulness required to maintain one’s place in a long line of ancestors.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • Sheshan3×
  • to/ Sheshan1×
  • and/ [belonged] to/ Sheshan1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • שֵׁשָׁ֧ן1×
  • שֵׁשָׁ֖ן1×
  • שֵׁשָׁ֔ן1×
  • לְ/שֵׁשָׁ֛ן1×
  • וּ/לְ/שֵׁשָׁ֛ן1×

Key Verses

  • I Chronicles 2:31
    The son of Appaim: Ishi. The son of Ishi: Sheshan. The son of Sheshan: Ahlai.

    This verse places Sheshan directly in the ancestral chain from Ishi to Ahlai, confirming his role as a structural link in Judah's lineage.

  • I Chronicles 2:34
    Now Sheshan had no sons, but only daughters. Sheshan had a servant, an Egyptian, whose name was Jarha.

    Here, the text highlights that Sheshan had no sons, only daughters, which sets up the unique solution for continuing his family line.

  • I Chronicles 2:35
    Sheshan gave his daughter to Jarha his servant as wife; and she bore him Attai.

    This occurrence shows Sheshan giving his daughter to his servant Jarha, ensuring his lineage continued through a new branch despite having no direct male heirs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Sheshan mean?

The name Sheshan is generally understood to mean "noble." It appears as a proper noun in the genealogies of Judah, specifically in the first chapter of 1 Chronicles. This meaning fits its context within the royal tribe's family tree.

Why is Sheshan mentioned only three times?

Sheshan is a minor figure in the biblical narrative, appearing only in the genealogical records of 1 Chronicles. His brief mention serves to link generations within the tribe of Judah, preserving the history and identity of Israel's tribes during the Divided Monarchy.

What happened regarding Sheshan's heirs?

According to 1 Chronicles 2:34, Sheshan had no sons, only daughters. To continue his lineage, he gave his daughter in marriage to his Egyptian servant, Jarha, who then bore a son named Attai (1 Chronicles 2:35).

Every Occurrence (3 verses across 1 books)

I Chronicles 3 verses
I Chronicles 2:31

The son of Appaim: Ishi. The son of Ishi: Sheshan. The son of Sheshan: Ahlai.

I Chronicles 2:34

Now Sheshan had no sons, but only daughters. Sheshan had a servant, an Egyptian, whose name was Jarha.

I Chronicles 2:35

Sheshan gave his daughter to Jarha his servant as wife; and she bore him Attai.