### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shᵉʼêlâh**, represented by `{{H7596}}`, is a term for a **petition**, **request**, or **loan**. It is derived from the root verb שָׁאַל (shâʼal), which means to ask or inquire. It appears **14 times** across **14 unique verses** in the Bible, signifying a formal or heartfelt appeal made to a higher authority, whether divine or human.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7596}}` is used in several significant contexts. One of the most prominent is Hannah's plea for a son, where Eli tells her God will grant her **petition** [[1 Samuel 1:17]]. After Samuel's birth, Hannah confirms, "the LORD hath given me my **petition** which I asked of him" [[1 Samuel 1:27]]. The word also features heavily in the book of Esther, where the king repeatedly asks Queen Esther, "What is thy **petition**?" ([[Esther 5:6]], [[Esther 7:2]]). Her eventual **petition** is for her own life and the lives of her people [[Esther 7:3]]. A distinct use of the word appears in reference to Samuel, who is called the **loan** which is lent to the LORD, framing the child as the answer to a request who is then dedicated back to God [[1 Samuel 2:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the act of making and receiving a request:
* `{{H7592}}` **shâʼal** (to inquire; by implication, to request): This is the root verb from which `{{H7596}}` is derived, representing the act of asking. Hannah **asked** `{{H7592}}` for her petition [[1 Samuel 1:17]].
* `{{H1246}}` **baqqâshâh** (a petition; request): This term is often used in parallel with `{{H7596}}`, especially in the book of Esther, to form a couplet expressing the fullness of a formal appeal, as in, "My **petition** `{{H7596}}` and my **request** `{{H1246}}` is;" [[Esther 5:7]].
* `{{H6419}}` **pâlal** (to intercede, pray): This word describes the act of prayer that often precedes a petition. Hannah states, "For this child I **prayed** `{{H6419}}`," connecting her prayer directly to the **petition** `{{H7596}}` God granted [[1 Samuel 1:27]].
* `{{H5414}}` **nâthan** (to give, grant, put): This verb is frequently used to describe the fulfillment of a petition. Both God and earthly kings are said to **grant** `{{H5414}}` a petition that is brought before them ([[1 Samuel 1:17]], [[Esther 5:6]]).
### Theological Significance
The conceptual weight of `{{H7596}}` is significant, illustrating the dynamics of supplication and divine response.
* **Appeals to Authority:** The word is used for requests made to both God [[1 Samuel 1:27]] and human rulers ([[Judges 8:24]], [[1 Kings 2:20]]). This demonstrates a consistent pattern of appealing to a higher power for favor or provision.
* **The Consequence of a Request:** Scripture shows that having a petition granted is not always an unqualified good. While Hannah's request brought blessing, the Israelites were given their **request** `{{H7596}}` in the wilderness, but God "sent leanness into their soul" [[Psalms 106:15]].
* **Dedication as a Loan:** The use of `{{H7596}}` as **loan** in [[1 Samuel 2:20]] introduces the idea that something received from God in response to a petition can be dedicated back to Him, fulfilling a vow of gratitude.
* **Petition as an Expression of Hope:** Job connects his **request** `{{H7596}}` with "the thing that I long for" `{{H8615}}`, which translates to expectancy or hope. This frames a petition not merely as a demand but as an outward expression of hope in God's ability to provide [[Job 6:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7596}}` is a multifaceted word that encompasses the act of making a formal **request** or **petition**. It illustrates the relationship between a supplicant and an authority figure, whether it is Hannah praying to God, Esther appealing to a king, or Job expressing his deepest hopes. The term carries with it the understanding that answered petitions can bring immense blessing but also carry solemn consequences, and it uniquely frames the concept of giving back to God what was first requested from Him.
TRV