שַׁרְשְׁרָה
a chain; (architectural) probably a garland
Definition
The Hebrew word שַׁרְשְׁרָה (sharshᵉrâh) primarily refers to a chain, specifically a type of ornamental or architectural chain. In Exodus 28:14 and 39:15, it describes the chains of pure gold used to attach the breastplate to the ephod, the high priest's garment. In architectural contexts, such as 1 Kings 7:17 and 2 Chronicles 3:5, 16, the term likely refers to decorative chain-like motifs or garlands carved into the pillars and temple structures, serving as intricate ornamentation.
Biblical Usage
This word is used five times in the Old Testament, appearing in descriptions of sacred objects and temple architecture. It is used in Exodus for the priestly garments (Exodus 28:14, 39:15) and in Kings and Chronicles for Solomon's Temple decorations (1 Kings 7:17, 2 Chronicles 3:5, 16). The usage consistently denotes crafted, ornamental chains, whether functional (for attachment) or purely decorative.
Etymology
Derived from the root שָׁרַשׁ (sharash, H8327), meaning 'to root' or 'to take root.' This suggests a concept of linked or intertwined elements, similar to a chain's interconnected links. It is related to שַׁרְשָׁה (sharshah, H8331), another word for a chain, indicating a shared semantic field of binding or connecting objects.
Semantic Range
The word highlights the beauty, order, and sacred craftsmanship mandated for worship. The chains on the high priest's garments (Exodus 28:14) symbolically connected the breastplate of judgment to the ephod, representing the inseparable link between God's guidance and priestly mediation. In the temple (1 Kings 7:17), the ornamental chains reflected the glory and meticulous design of God's dwelling place, pointing to the holiness and majesty of worship.
In ancient Near Eastern culture, chains were symbols of authority, connection, and artistry. The gold chains in the priestly attire signified honor and divine appointment, while architectural chains or garlands in temples were common decorative motifs, showcasing skill and dedicating beauty to the divine. Unlike modern industrial chains, these were finely crafted, precious items used in sacred and royal settings.
רְתוּקָה (rethuqah, H7569) — a general term for chain, often for binding or imprisonment; חֲשֻׁקִים (chashuqim, H2833) — refers to filigree settings or chains, used in the ephod's shoulder pieces (Exodus 28:14).
Word Details
How this works
Hebrew definitions are from Brown-Driver-Briggs (1906) and Strong's Exhaustive Concordance (1890), both public domain. BDB was groundbreaking for its era but reflects 19th-century assumptions about Semitic etymology. Modern scholarship (HALOT, DCH) has revised many entries. Use these definitions as a starting point for exploration, not as the final word on a term's meaning in context.
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