שֶׁרֶשׁ
A root (literally or figuratively)
Reading a lexicon entry
What this page is: Each lexicon entry shows the original Hebrew or Greek word behind the English translation: its meaning, its range of use, and where it appears in Scripture.
Strong's number: The Strong's code (H- or G-) is the standard reference number for this word. It connects this entry to chapter and passage language tabs.
Canonical witness: The witness passages show where this word is used in context. Click any to open the study page for that passage.
These lexicon entries are being actively developed. If you notice missing content, incorrect definitions, or have suggestions, we'd love to hear from you. Share a note on our Connect page and include a screenshot if helpful.
What does שֶׁרֶשׁ (shōresh) mean in the Bible?
שֶׁרֶשׁ (shōresh) is a Hebrew word meaning "a root (literally or figuratively)". a root (literally or figuratively) BDB: root Usage: bottom, deep, heel, root. The root of Jesse signifies both continuity with David and foundational hope for the nations.
Full entry for שֶׁרֶשׁ (H8328) · Browse the biblical lexicon
Meaning
Root as foundation of life or being—literal plant roots extend to figurative rootedness in covenant, stability, and ancestral continuity
a root (literally or figuratively) BDB: root Usage: bottom, deep, heel, root.
Why This Word Matters
The root of Jesse signifies both continuity with David and foundational hope for the nations. Hosea 9:10-17
Root struck implies irreversible decline. Isaiah 11:1-10
Grammatical Forms
How this word appears across different grammatical cases and numbers.
Biblical Occurrences
Each occurrence shows the passage reference, the original language term as it appears in that context, its transliteration, and the contextual sense.
Old Testament Witnesses
Showing 8 of 33 occurrences in the biblical text.
Appears In
Compound and idiomatic lexemes in which this word is a constituent. Follow a link to study the phrase and its other participating words.