Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Zecher is a lesser-known figure mentioned in the genealogical records of the Old Testament. His name appears in the context of the tribal lineage of Asher, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The name "Zecher" is derived from the Hebrew root "zakar," meaning "to remember" or "memorial." Biblical References: Zecher is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 7:31-32, which provides a genealogical account of the descendants of Asher. The passage reads: "The sons of Beriah: Heber and Malchiel, who was the father of Birzaith. Heber was the father of Japhlet, Shomer, and Hotham, and of their sister Shua." Zecher is listed as one of the sons of Japhlet, making him a descendant of Asher through Beriah. Tribal Context: Asher was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, named after the eighth son of Jacob and Zilpah, Leah's maidservant. The tribe of Asher was known for its prosperity and abundance, as reflected in Jacob's blessing in Genesis 49:20: "Asher’s food will be rich; he will provide delicacies fit for a king." The genealogies in 1 Chronicles serve to establish the tribal identities and familial connections among the Israelites, emphasizing the continuity of God's covenant with His people. Historical and Theological Significance: While Zecher himself is not a prominent figure in biblical narratives, his inclusion in the genealogical records underscores the importance of family lineage and heritage in the biblical tradition. The chronicling of names like Zecher serves to affirm the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs, ensuring the preservation and remembrance of each tribe's unique contribution to the history of Israel. Cultural and Religious Implications: In the ancient Near Eastern context, genealogies were vital for maintaining tribal identity and inheritance rights. They also played a crucial role in religious and social structures, as they were often used to establish claims to land, leadership, and priestly duties. For the Israelites, these records were a testament to God's faithfulness and the unfolding of His divine plan through successive generations. Conclusion: Zecher's mention in the genealogical records of 1 Chronicles highlights the broader narrative of God's covenantal relationship with Israel. Though not a central figure, Zecher's inclusion in the lineage of Asher reflects the enduring significance of family and tribal heritage in the biblical worldview. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ZECHERze'-ker (zakher, pausal form for zekher, "memorial"; the King James Version Zacher): In 1 Chronicles 8:31 = "Zechariah" of 1 Chronicles 9:37. Strong's Hebrew 2144. Zeker -- an Israelite... 2143, 2144. Zeker. 2145 . an Israelite. Transliteration: Zeker Phonetic Spelling: (zeh'-ker) Short Definition: Zecher. ... NASB Word Usage Zecher (1). Zeker. ... /hebrew/2144.htm - 6k Thesaurus Zecher (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ZECHER. ... See ZECHARIAH, (5). Multi-Version Concordance Zecher (1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 8:31 and Gedor, and Ahio, and Zecher. ... /z/zecher.htm - 7k Zechariah (55 Occurrences) Zeker (1 Occurrence) Zechari'ah's (1 Occurrence) Zechrias Gedor (7 Occurrences) Ahio (6 Occurrences) Ahi'o (6 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Zecher (1 Occurrence)1 Chronicles 8:31 Subtopics Related Terms |