### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shâbâb**, represented by `{{H7616}}`, describes a **fragment** or **ruin**. It is derived from an unused root that means to break up. This specific term appears only **1 time** in the entire Bible, signifying a state of being completely **broken in pieces**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{H7616}}` is found in the prophetic judgment against idolatry in Hosea. The prophet declares the fate of the golden calf worshipped in Samaria, stating that this man-made object is not God and will be utterly destroyed. The verse reads, "the calf of Samaria shall be **broken in pieces**" [[Hosea 8:6]]. This context firmly associates the word with the divine destruction of a false god, emphasizing its worthlessness and fragility.
### Related Words & Concepts
The surrounding words in its only appearance provide a clear picture of idolatry and its consequences:
* `{{H3478}}` **Yisrâʼêl** (Israel): The word identifies the origin of the transgression, stating that the idol was "from **Israel**" [[Hosea 8:6]].
* `{{H2796}}` **chârâsh** (workman, craftsman): This identifies the creator of the idol, highlighting that it is merely "the work of the hands of the **craftsman**" ([[Jeremiah 10:3]], [[Hosea 8:6]]).
* `{{H5695}}` **ʻêgel** (calf): This specifies the object of false worship, the idolatrous "**calf** of Samaria" [[Hosea 8:6]], a sin that recurs in Israel's history [[Exodus 32:4]].
* `{{H8111}}` **Shômᵉrôwn** (Samaria): This names the location associated with the idolatry, a city often condemned for its sin [[Micah 1:5]].
* `{{H6213}}` **ʻâsâh** (to do or make): This simple verb describes the human action of creating the idol, emphasizing its earthly origins when the text says the workman "**made** it" [[Hosea 8:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7616}}` is concentrated in its singular, powerful use.
* **The Futility of Idols:** The word demonstrates the ultimate end of any object worshipped in place of God. While made by a workman `{{H2796}}`, the calf `{{H5695}}` is not divine and is destined to be "broken in pieces," revealing its powerlessness.
* **Divine Judgment on False Worship:** The destruction of the calf of Samaria `{{H8111}}` is a direct act of judgment. The use of `{{H7616}}` signifies a complete and final shattering, a consequence of Israel's `{{H3478}}` sin.
* **The Creator vs. The Created:** The passage explicitly contrasts the eternal God with the temporary idol, stating, "the workman made it; therefore it is not God" [[Hosea 8:6]]. The fate of being "broken in pieces" is the definitive mark of a created thing, not the Creator.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7616}}` is a highly specific term for being broken into fragments. Though used only once, its appearance in [[Hosea 8:6]] delivers a potent theological message. It defines the destiny of idols as ruin and serves as a stark reminder of the distinction between the works of human hands and the one true God who is eternal and cannot be broken.
TRV