### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çᵉphôrâh**, represented by `{{H5615}}`, means **a numeration; number**. It is derived from the root word `{{H5608}}` **çâphar**, which means to count or declare. This term appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, where it is used to describe something that cannot be counted.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H5615}}` is found in [[Psalms 71:15]], where the psalmist declares God's righteousness and salvation. The verse concludes, "for I know not the **numbers** thereof." In this context, the word is used to express the infinite and immeasurable nature of God's saving acts. The psalmist's inability to provide a **numeration** serves to magnify the boundless quality of God's character and deeds.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help clarify its meaning:
* `{{H5608}}` **çâphar** (to score with a mark as a tally or record... to enumerate; intensively, to recount): As the root of `{{H5615}}`, this verb connects the idea of counting with declaring. While God's works can be declared or shewn forth [[Psalms 19:1]], they are ultimately too many to be numbered [[Psalms 40:5]].
* `{{H3045}}` **yâdaʻ** (to know; used in a great variety of senses... comprehend, consider): This word is set in direct opposition to `{{H5615}}` in its only verse: "I **know** not the numbers" [[Psalms 71:15]]. This highlights the limits of human comprehension when faced with the endless nature of God's works.
* `{{H6666}}` **tsᵉdâqâh** (rightness... justice, morally (virtue)): This is one of the qualities of God described as being beyond **numeration**. God's **righteousness** is presented not as a finite quantity, but as an immeasurable attribute that can be counted to believers [[Genesis 15:6]] and serves as their heritage [[Isaiah 54:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5615}}` is found in its singular, powerful use.
* **Divine Infinitude:** The word is used to establish a contrast between the finite capacity of humanity and the infinite nature of God. By stating that the "numbers" of God's acts cannot be known, scripture emphasizes His immeasurable greatness.
* **Humility in Knowledge:** The psalmist's confession, "I know not the **numbers**" [[Psalms 71:15]], is an admission of human limitation. It illustrates that while believers are called to declare God's works, they cannot fully quantify or contain them within their understanding.
* **Abundance of Grace:** The concept of innumerability is specifically applied to God's **righteousness** `{{H6666}}` and **salvation** `{{H8668}}`. This shows that His saving grace is not a limited resource but an inexhaustible, overflowing reality.
### Summary
In summary, though `{{H5615}}` **çᵉphôrâh** is one of the rarest words in the biblical text, its single use offers a profound theological statement. It defines the boundary between what can be measured by humanity and what is boundless in God. The word serves as a powerful reminder that God's righteousness and salvation are infinite, surpassing all human ability to count or comprehend.
TRV