Shalleketh is a term found in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the organization and duties of the Levitical gatekeepers during the reign of King David. The name "Shalleketh" is associated with one of the gates of the temple, highlighting its significance in the religious and communal life of ancient Israel.

Biblical Reference:

The primary reference to Shalleketh is found in 1 Chronicles 26:16. The verse states: "For Shuppim and Hosah, the lot fell to the West Gate, and the Gate of Shalleketh on the ascending highway. Guard corresponded to guard."

Context and Significance:

1. Location and Function:
· Shalleketh is identified as a gate on the western side of the temple complex. The term "Shalleketh" itself is often understood to mean "casting down" or "overthrow," which may refer to the gate's function or its physical characteristics, such as a slope or ramp leading to it.
· The gate was part of the intricate system of temple gates, each with specific duties assigned to the Levitical gatekeepers. These gatekeepers were responsible for maintaining order, security, and the sanctity of the temple precincts.

2. Levitical Duties:
· The Levites assigned to the Gate of Shalleketh were part of a larger group of gatekeepers, a role of great importance in the temple service. Their duties included regulating the flow of people and goods, ensuring that only those who were ceremonially clean could enter, and protecting the temple from any form of desecration.
· The mention of "guard corresponded to guard" indicates a well-organized system of shifts or rotations, ensuring that the gate was manned at all times.

3. Symbolic Meaning:
· Gates in biblical times often held symbolic meaning, representing access, protection, and authority. The Gate of Shalleketh, by virtue of its name and location, may symbolize the idea of judgment or the casting down of barriers, reflecting the spiritual oversight and discernment required of the gatekeepers.

4. Historical and Theological Implications:
· The detailed organization of the temple gates and the specific mention of Shalleketh underscore the importance of order and holiness in the worship practices of ancient Israel. It reflects the broader theological theme of God's holiness and the need for His people to approach Him with reverence and purity.
· The role of the gatekeepers, including those at Shalleketh, can be seen as a precursor to the New Testament concept of spiritual vigilance and the guarding of one's heart and community against spiritual threats.

In summary, Shalleketh serves as a testament to the structured and sacred nature of temple worship in ancient Israel, highlighting the roles and responsibilities of the Levitical gatekeepers in maintaining the sanctity of the house of God.7996. Shalleketh -- "(gate of) casting forth," a temple gate on ...
... 7995, 7996. Shalleketh. 7997 . ... Shalleketh. The same as shalleketh; Shalleketh,
a gate in Jerusalem -- Shalleketh. see HEBREW shalleketh. 7995, 7996. ...
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7995. shalleketh -- felling (of a tree)
... shalleketh. 7996 . felling (of a tree). Transliteration: shalleketh Phonetic Spelling:
(shal-leh'-keth) Short Definition: felled. ... shalleketh. 7996 . ...
/hebrew/7995.htm - 6k

Shalleketh (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Shalleketh (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 26:16
To Shuppim and Hosah westward, by the gate of Shallecheth ...
/s/shalleketh.htm - 6k

Shal'lecheth (1 Occurrence)
Shal'lecheth. Shallecheth, Shal'lecheth. Shalleketh . Multi-Version Concordance ...
(See RSV). Shallecheth, Shal'lecheth. Shalleketh . Reference Bible.
/s/shal'lecheth.htm - 6k

Shallow (4 Occurrences)

/s/shallow.htm - 7k

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