### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **hakkârâh**, represented by `{{H1971}}`, translates to **shew**. It is derived from a root meaning respect or partiality. This specific term appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, making its single usage highly significant for its interpretation. Its meaning is tied to an outward appearance or the expression of a person's face.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H1971}}` is in [[Isaiah 3:9]], where the prophet describes the state of Jerusalem and Judah. The verse states, "The **shew** `{{H1971}}` of their countenance `{{H6440}}` doth witness `{{H6030}}` against them; and they declare `{{H5046}}` their sin `{{H2403}}` as Sodom, they hide `{{H3582}}` it not." In this context, **hakkârâh** refers to the arrogant and defiant expression on their faces, which serves as undeniable evidence of their inner sinfulness. It is not something they try to conceal; rather, their appearance openly testifies to their corruption.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words found in the same verse illuminate the meaning of **hakkârâh**:
* `{{H6440}}` **pânîym** (countenance): This is the word for **the face**, the physical location of the "shew". It is the face `{{H6440}}` that reveals the inner state, as seen when the people are called to seek God's face [[2 Chronicles 7:14]].
* `{{H6030}}` **ʻânâh** (witness): Defined as to **respond, testify, or witness**, this word describes the action performed by the "shew". The very appearance of their faces testifies `{{H6030}}` against them, acting as a formal witness to their guilt [[Isaiah 3:9]].
* `{{H5046}}` **nâgad** (declare): Meaning to **manifest, announce, or declare**, this action runs parallel to the "shew". The people's appearance witnesses against them while they simultaneously declare `{{H5046}}` their sin openly [[Isaiah 3:9]].
* `{{H2403}}` **chaṭṭâʼâh** (sin): This is **an offence or sin**, the very thing that the "shew" reveals. The Bible speaks of how sins `{{H2403}}` can separate a person from God and cause Him to hide His face [[Isaiah 59:2]].
* `{{H3582}}` **kâchad** (hide): Meaning to **conceal or hide**, this word is used to show what the people are *not* doing. Their "shew" is the opposite of concealment; they do not hide `{{H3582}}` their sin, unlike Achan who was commanded not to hide his transgression [[Joshua 7:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1971}}` is concentrated in its single, impactful use.
* **External Evidence of Inward Sin:** The primary significance is how an internal state of corruption inevitably manifests externally. The "shew" of the countenance is a visible, undeniable indictment of the heart's condition.
* **The Rejection of Shame:** The context of [[Isaiah 3:9]] shows a people who no longer hide `{{H3582}}` their sin `{{H2403}}`. Their defiant "shew" `{{H1971}}` is a testament to a conscience seared to the point that they openly declare what should bring shame.
* **The Countenance as Witness:** This concept elevates the human face `{{H6440}}` to the level of a legal witness `{{H6030}}`. In the divine courtroom, one's own defiant expression is presented as evidence, highlighting a profound level of personal accountability before God.
### Summary
In summary, while **hakkârâh** `{{H1971}}` is one of the rarest words in the biblical text, its meaning is sharp and clear. It is not merely an appearance but a "shew"—an outward expression that serves as an irrefutable witness to the sinfulness within. Its use in [[Isaiah 3:9]] provides a powerful theological statement: that a heart given over to sin will eventually broadcast its rebellion for all to see, becoming its own evidence in judgment.
TRV