### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Çᵉbâʼîy**, represented by `{{H5436}}`, is a patrial term for **a Sebaite, or inhabitant of Seba; Sabean**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. This term specifically identifies a group of people from a particular geographic location, using them in prophetic contexts to represent broader themes of wealth, power, and foreign influence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{H5436}}` is used to illustrate the relationship between foreign nations and the God of Israel. In [[Isaiah 45:14]], the **Sabeans** are described as "men of stature" alongside the people of Egypt `{{H4714}}` and Ethiopia `{{H3568}}`. Their merchandise and wealth are prophesied to come over to Israel in submission, acknowledging that God is uniquely with His people. In [[Ezekiel 23:42]], **Sabeans** are brought from the wilderness to bestow "bracelets upon their hands, and beautiful crowns upon their heads," representing a source of worldly adornment and indulgence for the unfaithful.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide deeper context for the role of the Sabeans:
* `{{H3568}}` **Kûwsh** (Cush, Ethiopia): This term refers to Ethiopia and its people, who are mentioned directly alongside the Sabeans in the prophecy of their submission to God, highlighting a coalition of powerful, distant nations [[Isaiah 45:14]].
* `{{H5505}}` **çâchar** (mart, merchandise): This word describes the trade and profit associated with the Sabeans, whose "merchandise" is a key element of the wealth that will be transferred to Israel [[Isaiah 45:14]].
* `{{H5433}}` **çâbâʼ** (to quaff to satiety, i.e. become tipsy; drunkard): This primitive root is explicitly linked to the Sabeans in [[Ezekiel 23:42]], associating this people group with themes of excess and indulgence.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H5436}}` is tied to its prophetic role.
* **Submission of Gentile Power:** The Sabeans, as "men of stature" with valuable "merchandise," represent the strength and wealth of the Gentile world. Their prophesied submission in [[Isaiah 45:14]] demonstrates God's ultimate sovereignty over all nations.
* **Source of Worldly Temptation:** In [[Ezekiel 23:42]], the Sabeans function as agents of worldly luxury, providing the adornments for a people "being at ease." This context links them to decadent indulgence and the spiritual corruption it can cause.
* **Representation of the Nations:** In both appearances, the Sabeans are listed with other foreign peoples like the Egyptians `{{H4714}}` and Ethiopians `{{H3568}}`, using them as a specific example to represent the broader Gentile world in God's prophetic plan.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5436}}` is more than just a label for an ancient people. Though used only twice, it serves as a powerful symbol in biblical prophecy. The Sabeans are depicted as a strong, wealthy Gentile nation used to illustrate two distinct themes: the eventual submission of all worldly power and wealth to God, and the corrupting influence of worldly indulgence and luxury.
TRV