### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Shᵉbâʼ**, represented by `{{H7614}}`, is a term of foreign origin that refers to **Sheba, the name of three early progenitors of tribes and of an Ethiopian district; Sheba, Sabeans**. It appears **23 times** across **23 unique verses**, highlighting its role in biblical genealogies and as a representation of a distant, wealthy nation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7614}}` appears in several key contexts. Most famously, the queen of **Sheba** travels to test King Solomon's wisdom with hard questions, bringing with her a great company with camels bearing **spices** `{{H1314}}`, abundant **gold** `{{H2091}}`, and **precious** `{{H3368}}` **stones** `{{H68}}` ([[1 Kings 10:1]], [[2 Chronicles 9:1]]). Sheba is also listed in genealogies as a son of Raamah [[Genesis 10:7]] and a son of Jokshan [[Genesis 25:3]]. As a people, the **Sabeans** `{{H7614}}` are depicted as raiders who fell upon Job's property [[Job 1:15]], while in prophetic writings, they are described as merchants [[Ezekiel 27:22-23]] and as a nation that will bring its wealth to honor God [[Isaiah 60:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illustrate the significance of Sheba:
* `{{H2091}}` **zâhâb** (gold): This word is consistently linked with Sheba, which was renowned for its immense wealth. The queen of Sheba gave Solomon one hundred and twenty **talents** `{{H3603}}` of **gold** [[1 Kings 10:10]], and prophecies describe **gold** from Sheba being given as a gift [[Psalms 72:15]].
* `{{H1314}}` **besem** (spice): Defined as fragrance or spicery, this word points to another of Sheba's valuable trade goods. The narrative emphasizes the great abundance of **spices** brought by the queen of Sheba, a quantity that was never seen again ([[1 Kings 10:10]], [[2 Chronicles 9:9]]).
* `{{H7402}}` **râkal** (merchant): This term, meaning to travel for trading, defines Sheba's primary economic role in passages like Ezekiel. The **merchants** of Sheba are listed as trading in chief spices, precious stones, and gold [[Ezekiel 27:22]].
* `{{H1719}}` **Dᵉdân** (Dedan): This name frequently appears alongside Sheba in genealogies, establishing a close tribal relationship ([[Genesis 10:7]], [[Genesis 25:3]]). They are also mentioned together as trading peoples who question the motives of invading forces [[Ezekiel 38:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7614}}` is significant, often representing the Gentile world's relationship with Israel and its God.
* **Acknowledgment of Divine Wisdom:** The queen of Sheba's journey was not merely for trade but to witness the God-given **wisdom** `{{H2451}}` of Solomon [[1 Kings 10:4]]. Her awe serves as a testament from a foreign land to the blessings bestowed upon Israel's king.
* **Tribute from the Nations:** In prophecy, Sheba represents the wealth of the nations flowing to God's kingdom. The kings of **Sheba** are prophesied to **offer** `{{H7126}}` **gifts** `{{H814}}` [[Psalms 72:10]], and its people will **bring** `{{H5375}}` gold and **incense** `{{H3828}}` to show forth the **praises** `{{H8416}}` of the LORD [[Isaiah 60:6]].
* **Material vs. Spiritual Value:** While Sheba is known for prized goods, God makes it clear that these offerings are worthless without genuine obedience. God rejects the **incense** `{{H3828}}` from Sheba when Israel's sacrifices are not acceptable to Him [[Jeremiah 6:20]], subordinating worldly wealth to a right relationship with Him.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7614}}` functions as more than a name for a person or place. It is a symbol of distant lands, immense wealth, and international trade. Biblically, Sheba serves as an example of a foreign power acknowledging the wisdom and glory of God in Israel, a prophetic source of tribute for God's kingdom, and a poignant reminder that the value of material riches is eclipsed by the importance of sincere worship.
TRV