### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun `{{H5547}}` (סְלִיחָה, çᵉlîychâh) is derived directly from the verbal root `{{H5545}}` (סָלַח, salach), which signifies "to forgive," "to pardon," or "to remit." As a feminine noun, `{{H5547}}` encapsulates the act or state of divine pardon itself. Its core meaning points to God's gracious act of overlooking transgressions, remitting the penalty due for sin, and restoring the broken relationship. This forgiveness is not merely a temporary suspension of judgment but implies a complete and definitive removal of the offense, rooted in God's merciful character rather than human merit. It highlights the divine initiative in reconciliation, emphasizing that only God possesses the authority and nature to grant such profound and salvific forgiveness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The noun `{{H5547}}` appears sparingly in the Hebrew Bible, primarily in later books, which reflects a deepened theological understanding of God's mercy in the wake of national sin and exile. Its limited but powerful occurrences illuminate key aspects of God's character:
* **[[Nehemiah 9:17]]**: In this communal prayer of confession and remembrance, the Levites declare, "But you are a God of forgiveness, gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in lovingkindness, and did not forsake them." Here, `{{H5547}}` (אֱלוֹהַּ סְלִיחוֹת, "God of forgivenesses") is presented as an inherent, defining attribute of God, alongside His grace, compassion, patience, and steadfast love. It underscores God's unfailing willingness to pardon His stubbornly rebellious people.
* **[[Psalm 130:4]]**: "But with you there is forgiveness, that you may be feared." This verse profoundly connects God's capacity for `{{H5547}}` with the proper human response: reverential fear. The presence of divine pardon prevents utter despair and motivates a return to God, inspiring a worshipful awe rather than terror. It is precisely because God forgives that humanity can approach Him with humble reverence.
* **[[Daniel 9:9]]**: In Daniel's fervent prayer for his exiled people, he confesses, "To the Lord our God belong compassion and forgiveness, for we have rebelled against Him." Similar to Nehemiah, `{{H5547}}` is attributed solely to God, invoked in a context of profound national repentance. It highlights God's sovereign right and merciful disposition to pardon even severe and prolonged rebellion.
### Related Words & Concepts
The understanding of `{{H5547}}` is enriched by its relationship with several other significant Hebrew terms:
* **`{{H5545}}` (סָלַח - salach)**: The verbal root from which `{{H5547}}` is derived. This verb is almost exclusively used with God as the subject, emphasizing that divine forgiveness is a unique act of God.
* **`{{H3722}}` (כָּפַר - kaphar)**: To atone, to cover, to make propitiation. While `{{H5547}}` is the *result* or *act* of pardon, `{{H3722}}` refers to the *means* by which sin is dealt with, often through sacrificial offerings. Forgiveness is the outcome of atonement.
* **`{{H5375}}` (נָשָׂא - nasa)**: To lift up, to bear, to carry away. This verb is frequently used in the context of "taking away iniquity" or "bearing sin" (e.g., [[Exodus 34:7]]). It describes the removal of the burden and guilt of sin, an effect of God's `{{H5547}}`.
* **`{{H2617}}` (חֶסֶד - chesed)**: Lovingkindness, steadfast love, mercy. `{{H5547}}` is consistently presented as an expression of God's `{{H2617}}`, particularly in the prayers of Nehemiah and Daniel, underscoring that forgiveness flows from God's inherent, covenantal love.
* **`{{H7356}}` (רַחֲמִים - rachamim)**: Compassion, mercy. Often paired with `{{H2617}}` and integral to the concept of `{{H5547}}`, `{{H7356}}` speaks to God's deep, visceral pity and tenderness towards His erring creation.
### Theological Significance
The theological implications of `{{H5547}}` are profound and foundational to biblical theology:
* **Divine Prerogative**: `{{H5547}}` unequivocally establishes forgiveness as an exclusive attribute and act of God. While humans can forgive offenses against themselves, only God can truly forgive sin committed against His holy nature and law. This underscores God's absolute sovereignty and holiness.
* **Basis for Relationship**: The existence of `{{H5547}}` is the very bedrock upon which humanity's relationship with a holy God can be sustained. Without divine pardon, sin would permanently sever the connection, leading to eternal separation. It highlights God's profound desire for reconciliation and His initiative in restoring fellowship.
* **Motivator for Reverence**: As articulated in [[Psalm 130:4]], God's capacity for `{{H5547}}` leads not to presumption or indifference, but to a profound, reverential fear (יִרְאָה). Knowing that God is willing to forgive despite our rebellion inspires awe, gratitude, and sincere worship, fostering humble obedience rather than despair.
* **Hope in Judgment**: In contexts of national sin and divine judgment (Nehemiah, Daniel), `{{H5547}}` serves as the ultimate source of hope. Even when facing the dire consequences of rebellion, the knowledge of God's forgiving nature offers a path to restoration, renewal, and the re-establishment of covenant blessings.
* **Covenant Faithfulness**: God's `{{H5547}}` is a powerful testament to His unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises, even when His people are unfaithful. It demonstrates His steadfast character and His enduring commitment to His redemptive plan for humanity.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H5547}}` (סְלִיחָה, çᵉlîychâh) signifies "forgiveness" or "pardon," specifically denoting the divine act of remitting sin. Derived from the verb `{{H5545}}` (סָלַח), it underscores God's unique prerogative and inherent character as the only true forgiver. Found in significant post-exilic passages such as [[Nehemiah 9:17]], [[Psalm 130:4]], and [[Daniel 9:9]], `{{H5547}}` consistently portrays God as rich in compassion and abounding in pardon, even in the face of profound human rebellion. It is intrinsically linked with other divine attributes like `{{H2617}}` (lovingkindness) and `{{H7356}}` (compassion). Theologically, `{{H5547}}` is foundational for humanity's continued relationship with God, inspiring reverential fear and offering profound hope for reconciliation and restoration, thereby demonstrating God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant.
TRV