### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shᵉʼîyâh**, represented by `{{H7591}}`, signifies **desolation** or **destruction**. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in a single verse in the Bible, highlighting a specific and potent form of ruin. Its singular usage points to a complete and final state of devastation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H7591}}` is in Isaiah's prophecy of judgment in [[Isaiah 24:12]]. The verse paints a stark picture of a city already abandoned to **desolation** `{{H8047}}`, where the gate, a symbol of a city's strength and access, is not merely damaged but "smitten with **destruction**". This places **shᵉʼîyâh** as the final, violent end-state of a city's defenses after it has been overcome by ruin.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context in [[Isaiah 24:12]] help clarify its meaning:
* `{{H8047}}` **shammâh** (desolation): This word for **ruin** or **astonishment** describes the overall state of the city. It is used in contexts of divine judgment, such as when the LORD makes **desolations** in the earth [[Psalms 46:8]].
* `{{H3807}}` **kâthath** (to bruise or violently strike): This verb defines the action leading to the **destruction** (shᵉʼîyâh). It means to **smite** or **break in pieces**, as when the gate is **smitten** [[Isaiah 24:12]].
* `{{H5892}}` **ʻîyr** (city): This is the location of the **destruction**. While a **city** is the object of judgment in [[Isaiah 24:12]], it can also be the object of God's protection, as when the LORD keeps the **city** [[Psalms 127:1]].
* `{{H8179}}` **shaʻar** (gate): This term for a door or **gate** represents a city's security. In [[Isaiah 24:12]] the **gate** is the focus of **destruction**, but elsewhere gates are to be entered with thanksgiving [[Psalms 100:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7591}}` is concentrated in its single appearance.
* **Finality of Judgment:** The use of **shᵉʼîyâh** points to an absolute and irreversible ruin. It describes a complete **destruction** that follows a state of **desolation** `{{H8047}}`, indicating the final stage of judgment.
* **Vulnerability of Human Strength:** The target of the **destruction** is the **gate** `{{H8179}}`, a symbol of a city's power and security. By showing the gate itself is smitten with **destruction**, the text emphasizes that human defenses are worthless against divine judgment.
* **Consequence of Sin:** The context of Isaiah's prophecy links such devastation to divine wrath against a sinful land. The purpose of laying a land desolate is to destroy the sinners from it [[Isaiah 13:9]], showing that this **destruction** is a consequence of transgression.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7591}}` **shᵉʼîyâh** is a precise and impactful term for **destruction**. Though it appears only once, its placement in [[Isaiah 24:12]] gives it significant weight. It describes the violent and final ruin of a city's gate, serving as a powerful theological symbol of the totality of divine judgment and the ultimate futility of human fortifications. It illustrates a complete and utter end.
TRV