What was Uzzen-sherah?
Uzzen-sherah was a town mentioned in the genealogical records of the tribe of Ephraim in the Old Testament. The name appears in 1 Chronicles 7:24, a chapter that provides a historical account of the descendants of Ephraim, one of the sons of Joseph. The town is notable because it was built by a woman named Sherah, which is a rare and significant detail in the biblical genealogical records.
The name Uzzen-sherah (Hebrew: אֻזֵּן שֶׁרַח, ʾUzzen-Sherach) is believed to mean “portion or ear of Sherah” or “a listening place of Sherah.” The first part, Uzzen, is thought to derive from the root azan (אָזַן), meaning “ear” or “to listen.” The second part is a proper name, Sherah (שֶׁרַח), which may mean “kinswoman” or “flesh” and likely refers to the town’s builder.
Biblical References
Uzzen-sherah is mentioned only once in Scripture:
“His daughter was Sherah, who built Lower and Upper Beth Horon as well as Uzzen Sheerah.”
— 1 Chronicles 7:24, NIV
This verse is part of the larger genealogy of Ephraim, listed in 1 Chronicles 7:20-29, which traces the lineage of one of the most influential tribes of Israel. Notable nearby references include:
- Beth Horon (Joshua 10:10; 1 Kings 9:17): twin cities of military importance.
- Ephraim’s genealogy (Numbers 26:35-37; 1 Chronicles 7:20-29).
Historical and Biblical Context
Sherah, the daughter of Ephraim’s descendant, is highlighted as the builder of Lower and Upper Beth Horon and Uzzen-sherah. This is highly unusual in biblical genealogies, where women are rarely credited with founding or building towns. The inclusion of her name and her accomplishments suggests she was a woman of extraordinary leadership and influence in her time.
The towns she built—especially Beth Horon—were strategic military and trade locations in the hill country of Ephraim. Uzzen-sherah likely existed nearby and was associated with Sherah’s legacy, possibly named after her in honor of her work.
Significance for Today’s Christians
1. God’s Use of the Faithful Regardless of Gender
Sherah’s role in founding Uzzen-sherah demonstrates that God‘s purposes are not confined to men alone. While the biblical narrative is predominantly patriarchal in structure, moments like these reveal that God honors the faith, courage, and leadership of women. This challenges cultural norms, both ancient and modern, and reminds believers that God‘s calling is not restricted by gender or status.
2. Legacy through Faithfulness
Uzzen-sherah reflects the theme of leaving a legacy rooted in obedience and faith. The building of a city, especially one that bore her name, implies that Sherah’s life had a lasting impact on her community. Christians today are likewise called to build legacies—not necessarily of stone and mortar, but of faith, service, and witness to Christ.
3. God’s Providence in Israel’s Tribal History
The placement of Uzzen-sherah in the genealogies of Israel highlights how God‘s providence extended through every tribe and family. Even seemingly minor towns or people contribute to the unfolding redemptive history that ultimately leads to Jesus Christ.
Connection to Jesus and the Gospel
Although Uzzen-sherah does not appear directly in the New Testament or in messianic prophecies, its placement within the tribe of Ephraim ties it to the broader story of Israel, from whom the Messiah would come. Jesus’ human lineage traces through Israel’s patriarchs, and the genealogical records—such as the one in 1 Chronicles 7—serve as the foundation of Israel’s national identity, from which the promised Savior would emerge.
Furthermore, Sherah’s legacy in Uzzen-sherah can be viewed as a faint echo of what Christ accomplishes in the lives of believers: He builds a spiritual house (1 Peter 2:5) and calls each one to be part of a lasting kingdom. Her physical building work symbolizes the spiritual building work Christ does in His Church.
Broader Biblical Themes
God’s Inclusion of Women in His Work
Uzzen-sherah is a rare biblical reminder that women played significant roles in the unfolding of redemptive history. Other examples include Deborah (Judges 4-5), Ruth, Esther, and Mary the mother of Jesus.
The Value of Legacy and Inheritance
The naming of a town after Sherah indicates the importance of heritage and memory in Israel’s tribal structure. In the gospel, this is elevated into a spiritual legacy as Christians are called co-heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17).
Building and Establishing God’s Purposes
From the building of cities in the Old Testament to the building of the Church in the New, God calls His people to actively participate in His purposes. Sherah’s hands built towns; today, God builds His Church through His people.
Reflection Questions
- Sherah’s work left a legacy honored in Scripture. What kind of legacy are you building with your life?
- Uzzen-sherah reminds us that God uses people regardless of gender or cultural norms. Are there any ways you’ve limited yourself—or others—from serving because of such assumptions?
- How does your life reflect the “building” work of the gospel in your family, church, or community?
- What does the story of Uzzen-sherah teach you about honoring faithful service, even in roles that go unnoticed?
- Are you allowing Christ to build something lasting in you, as Sherah once built something lasting for her people?
Uzzen-sherah, though mentioned briefly, represents a striking testimony of faithful labor, unexpected leadership, and God‘s delight in using all His people to build something that matters.