Metaphysical meaning of Shechem (mbd)
Shechem, she'-chem (Heb.)--inclining; bending down; shoulder; ridge; upper part of the back; a burden.
a Son of Hamor the Hivite, who was killed by the sons of Jacob (Gen. 33:19 to 34:26). b An ancient town of Palestine (Gen. 12:6; Josh. 24:32). It was in the hill country of Ephraim, in the Promised Land (Josh. 20:7; see also Judg. 9:1-49; Kings 12:1). c Son of Gilead, from whom the family of the Shechemites was descended (Num. 26:31). d Son of Shemida of the tribe of Manasseh (I Chron. 7:19)
Meta. A burden-bearing attitude of thought (shoulder, a burden). Of Issachar we read:"And he bowed his shoulder to bear, And became a servant under taskwork." Persons who are constantly bowed down with the thought of burdens and responsibilities and hard work become round-shouldered and stooped. On the other hand ideas of freedom and dominion always cause one involuntarily to throw one's shoulders back and stand erect.
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Preceding Entry: Shecaniah
Following Entry: Shechemites
