### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun `{{H2045}}` (hashmâʻûwth) is derived from the verbal root `{{H8085}}` (shamâʻ), which fundamentally means "to hear," "to listen," "to understand," and by extension, "to obey." The form hashmâʻûwth is a noun derived from the Hiphil stem of shamâʻ. The Hiphil stem typically denotes a causative action, thus "to cause to hear" or "to make known." Therefore, hashmâʻûwth carries the core meaning of an "announcement," "proclamation," or "the act of causing something to be heard." Its semantic range emphasizes the active declaration or making known of information, rather than merely passive reception. It implies a deliberate and authoritative communication intended to be heard and, by implication, heeded.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The noun `{{H2045}}` (hashmâʻûwth) is singularly attested in the Masoretic Text, appearing only in [[Jeremiah 49:3]]. The full phrase in this verse reads: "Hear the counsel of the LORD, which he hath taken against Edom; and his purposes, which he hath purposed against the inhabitants of Teman: Surely the least of the flock shall draw them out; surely he shall make their habitations desolate with them. At the noise of their fall the earth is moved, and the cry thereof is heard among the Red Sea. They will not hear the sound of the announcement (לֹא יִשְׁמָעוּ קוֹל הַשְׁמָעוּת)."
In this context, the word refers to a divine "announcement" or "proclamation" of judgment against Edom. The prophet Jeremiah conveys God's counsel and purposes, which are explicitly stated as being against Edom and Teman. The subsequent description of desolation and a great cry underscores the severity of this judgment. The crucial phrase "they will not hear the sound of the announcement" (לֹא יִשְׁמָעוּ קוֹל הַשְׁמָעוּת) highlights Edom's refusal or inability to heed God's authoritative declaration. This is not a failure of God to communicate, but a failure of the recipients to listen or respond appropriately. The pairing with קוֹל (qôl, `{{H6963}}`, "sound" or "voice") further emphasizes the audible, active nature of this divine declaration.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word is the verbal root `{{H8085}}` (shamâʻ), from which `{{H2045}}` is derived. shamâʻ is one of the most fundamental verbs in the Hebrew Bible, encompassing the acts of hearing, listening attentively, understanding, and obeying. The causative Hiphil forms of shamâʻ, such as הִשְׁמִיעַ (hishmîaʻ), meaning "to cause to hear" or "to proclaim," are directly related in meaning to the noun hashmâʻûwth.
Other related concepts and words include:
* קוֹל (qôl, `{{H6963}}`): "voice," "sound," or "noise," which appears directly alongside hashmâʻûwth in [[Jeremiah 49:3]], emphasizing the audible nature of the announcement.
* דָּבָר (dāḇār, `{{H1697}}`): "word," "matter," or "thing," often used to refer to God's revealed word or decree.
* Concepts of divine revelation, prophecy, decree, and warning. The act of God "causing to hear" is central to His communication with humanity, whether through law, prophecy, or judgment.
### Theological Significance
Despite its single occurrence, `{{H2045}}` carries significant theological weight due to its root and context.
1. **Divine Initiative in Communication:** The word underscores God's active role in making His will, counsel, and purposes known. He does not merely possess knowledge but actively "causes it to be heard," even by those who resist. This highlights God's initiative in revelation and His desire for humanity to understand His intentions.
2. **The Nature of Divine Judgment:** In [[Jeremiah 49:3]], hashmâʻûwth is the "announcement" of judgment. This reveals that God's judgments are not arbitrary but are often preceded by clear warnings or declarations of His righteous purposes. It speaks to God's justice and His desire for repentance, even when that desire is ultimately rejected.
3. **The Responsibility of Hearing:** The phrase "they will not hear the sound of the announcement" implicitly emphasizes the profound human responsibility to heed God's word. The failure to hear, in the biblical sense, is often a failure to obey or respond in faith. This links hashmâʻûwth to the broader biblical theme of "Shema Israel" – the call to hear and obey God's commands.
4. **Sovereignty and Certainty:** God's "announcement" of His counsel and purposes indicates their certainty and His sovereign power to bring them to pass. Even if the recipients refuse to hear, the divine decree remains firm.
### Summary
`{{H2045}}` (hashmâʻûwth) is a rare but potent Hebrew noun derived from the fundamental root `{{H8085}}` (shamâʻ), meaning "to hear." It denotes "an announcement" or "the act of causing to hear," emphasizing an active, authoritative declaration. Its sole occurrence in [[Jeremiah 49:3]] describes God's "announcement" of judgment against Edom, which they refuse to heed. Theologically, hashmâʻûwth highlights God's active initiative in divine communication, the just nature of His warnings preceding judgment, and the critical human responsibility to listen and respond to His proclaimed word. It underscores the power and certainty of God's declared purposes, even in the face of human recalcitrance.
TRV