Shelah(2)

Shelah in the Bible — third-born son of Judah (GEN 38:5). Shelah belonged to the tribe of Judah. Referenced in 9 scripture passages.

Name meaning: “that breaks; that unties; that undresses”

Profile

Gender: male
Tribe: Judah
Scripture References: 9 references
Known Names: 1 name
Relationships: 8 connections

Biography

Shelah was a male member of the tribe of Judah, known as the third-born son of Judah. He is noted in Scripture as the ancestor of the Shelanites, a clan mentioned in the book of Numbers. His identity is primarily grounded in his lineage within the tribe of Judah.

Names & Titles

The name Shelah means 'missile' or 'sprout,' indicating a possible symbolism of growth or strength. This proper name was not given by God but is recorded in Genesis 38:5.

Family

Shelah was explicitly the son of Judah and Bath-shua. Inferred from genealogical listings in 1 Chronicles 4, he is also considered the father of Er, Laadah, Jokim, Joash, Saraph, and Jashubi-lehem, establishing his role as a patriarch within his family line.

Significance

Shelah's significance lies in his position as a key descendant of Judah, contributing to the genealogical foundation of the tribe. The mention of the Shelanites descending from him in Numbers 26:20 highlights his role in the tribal history of Israel. His lineage helps trace the fulfillment of God's promises through Judah's descendants.