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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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