She'shai is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the Israelite conquest of Canaan. He is identified as one of the three Anakim brothers who resided in Hebron, a significant city in the hill country of Judah. The Anakim were a race of giants known for their formidable size and strength, and they were considered a major obstacle to the Israelites as they sought to take possession of the Promised Land.

Biblical References:

The primary reference to She'shai is found in the Book of Joshua. In Joshua 15:14 , it is recorded: "And Caleb drove out from there the three sons of Anak: Sheshai, Ahiman, and Talmai, the descendants of Anak." This passage highlights the role of Caleb, one of the faithful spies sent by Moses, in expelling the Anakim from Hebron. Caleb's victory over She'shai and his brothers is a testament to his faith and the fulfillment of God's promise to give the land to the Israelites.

Historical and Theological Context:

The mention of She'shai and his brothers occurs during the period of the Israelite conquest of Canaan, following their exodus from Egypt and the subsequent 40 years of wandering in the wilderness. The Anakim, including She'shai, were part of the indigenous populations that the Israelites encountered upon entering the land. The presence of these giants was initially a source of fear for the Israelites, as reported by the ten spies who discouraged the people from entering Canaan (Numbers 13:28, 33).

However, Caleb and Joshua, the two faithful spies, trusted in God's promise and encouraged the Israelites to proceed with the conquest. Caleb's eventual triumph over She'shai and his brothers is emblematic of the victory of faith over fear and the fulfillment of divine promises. It underscores the biblical theme that God empowers His people to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges when they trust in Him.

Cultural and Geographical Significance:

Hebron, the city associated with She'shai, holds considerable significance in biblical history. It is one of the oldest cities in the region and is frequently mentioned in the Bible. Hebron was the site where Abraham, the patriarch of the Israelites, settled and where he purchased the Cave of Machpelah as a burial site for his wife Sarah (Genesis 23:19). The city's association with the patriarchs adds to its importance as a symbol of God's covenant with Israel.

The defeat of She'shai and the Anakim by Caleb also marks the transition of Hebron into the hands of the Israelites, further solidifying their claim to the land promised by God. This event is a pivotal moment in the narrative of the conquest, demonstrating the fulfillment of God's promises through the faith and obedience of His people.

In summary, She'shai is a figure whose mention in the Bible serves to highlight the themes of faith, divine promise, and the triumph of God's people over formidable adversaries. His account is intertwined with the broader narrative of the Israelite conquest and the establishment of their presence in the Promised Land.She'shai (3 Occurrences)

Numbers 13:22
And they went up into the South, and came unto Hebron; and Ahiman, Sheshai, and Talmai, the children of Anak, were there. --Now Hebron was built seven years before Zoan in Egypt.--
(See RSV)

Joshua 15:14
And Caleb drove out thence the three sons of Anak, Sheshai, and Ahiman, and Talmai, the children of Anak.
(See RSV)

Judges 1:10
And Judah went against the Canaanites who dwelt in Hebron (now the name of Hebron was formerly Kir'iath-ar'ba); and they defeated She'shai and Ahi'man and Talmai.
(DBY RSV)

She'shai (3 Occurrences)
She'shai. Sheshai, She'shai. Sheshak . Multi-Version Concordance She'shai
(3 Occurrences). Numbers 13:22 And they went up into the ...
/s/she'shai.htm - 7k

Sheshai (3 Occurrences)

/s/sheshai.htm - 8k

Kir'iath-ar'ba (9 Occurrences)
... Judges 1:10 And Judah went against the Canaanites who dwelt in Hebron (now the name
of Hebron was formerly Kir'iath-ar'ba); and they defeated She'shai and Ahi ...
/k/kir'iath-ar'ba.htm - 9k

Ahi'man (4 Occurrences)
... Judges 1:10 And Judah went against the Canaanites who dwelt in Hebron (now the name
of Hebron was formerly Kir'iath-ar'ba); and they defeated She'shai and Ahi ...
/a/ahi'man.htm - 7k

Sheshak (1 Occurrence)

/s/sheshak.htm - 6k

Formerly (55 Occurrences)
... Judges 1:10 And Judah went against the Canaanites who dwelt in Hebron (now the name
of Hebron was formerly Kir'iath-ar'ba); and they defeated She'shai and Ahi ...
/f/formerly.htm - 22k

Defeated (88 Occurrences)
... Judges 1:10 And Judah went against the Canaanites who dwelt in Hebron (now the name
of Hebron was formerly Kir'iath-ar'ba); and they defeated She'shai and Ahi ...
/d/defeated.htm - 32k

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