### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shᵉbûwʻâh**, represented by `{{H7621}}`, is a term for something sworn, specifically an **oath**. It appears 30 times across 29 unique verses in the Bible. Based on its root, it signifies a solemn, binding declaration, which can also carry the weight of a curse or be used idiomatically to mean sworn.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H7621}}` is used in several significant ways. It is central to God's covenantal promises, as when He pledges to "perform the **oath** which I sware unto Abraham" [[Genesis 26:3]]. This divine **oath** is the basis for Israel's redemption and inheritance ([[Deuteronomy 7:8]], [[Jeremiah 11:5]]). The term also governs human relationships and legal matters. It is used for pacts between individuals, such as the **oath** between David and Jonathan [[2 Samuel 21:7]], and for resolving disputes [[Exodus 22:11]]. In a legal context, an **oath** is taken to "bind his soul with a bond" [[Numbers 30:2]]. The word can also carry a negative consequence, where the people of Israel enter into "a curse, and into an **oath**" as part of their commitment to God's law [[Nehemiah 10:29]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the scope and gravity of an oath:
* `{{H7650}}` **shâbaʻ** (to swear): This is the primitive root from which **shᵉbûwʻâh** is derived. It means to swear an oath and frequently appears in the same verse, as in "the **oath** which I have **sworn** unto your fathers" [[Jeremiah 11:5]].
* `{{H423}}` **ʼâlâh** (curse, oath): This term often appears alongside `{{H7621}}` to emphasize the self-maledictory nature of an oath if broken. In Nehemiah, the people entered "into a **curse**, and into an **oath**" [[Nehemiah 10:29]].
* `{{H5088}}` **neder** (a promise (to God); also (concretely) a thing promised; vow(-ed)): While distinct, a vow is closely related to an oath. Scripture contrasts them by stating a man may "**vow** a **vow**... or swear an **oath**" [[Numbers 30:2]].
* `{{H632}}` **ʼĕçâr** (an obligation or vow (of abstinence); binding, bond): This word describes the binding power of an oath. An oath is sworn "to bind his soul with a **bond**" [[Numbers 30:2]].
* `{{H5355}}` **nâqîy** (innocent; blameless, clean, clear, exempted, free, guiltless, innocent, quit): This word describes being released from the obligation of an oath, as when the men told Rahab, "We will be **blameless** of this thine **oath**" [[Joshua 2:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7621}}` is significant and multifaceted.
* **Divine Faithfulness:** God's **oath** is the ultimate guarantee of His promises. His covenant with Abraham, confirmed to Isaac, is established by His **oath** [[Psalms 105:9]]. This demonstrates that God binds Himself by His own word to show His unchanging commitment to His people.
* **Human Responsibility:** An **oath** taken before God or man is a solemn obligation. The people of Israel were held accountable for the **oath** they swore to the Gibeonites, fearing that wrath would come upon them if they broke it [[Joshua 9:20]]. Ecclesiastes advises one to "keep the king's commandment, and that in regard of the **oath** of God" [[Ecclesiastes 8:2]].
* **The Basis of Curses:** While an **oath** confirms a blessing, it also invokes a curse for disobedience. The consequences for Israel's sin are described as "the **curse** is poured upon us, and the **oath** that is written in the law of Moses" [[Daniel 9:11]].
* **An Object of Fear and Reverence:** A sacred **oath** is not to be made lightly. The people "feared the **oath**" Saul had made [[1 Samuel 14:26]], and the Lord declares He hates a "false **oath**" [[Zechariah 8:17]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7621}}` represents far more than a simple promise. It is a foundational concept in Scripture for establishing covenants, defining legal and personal obligations, and administering both divine blessing and judgment. The word **shᵉbûwʻâh** illustrates a sacred commitment whose integrity is paramount, underpinning the relationship between God and His people as well as the structure of justice and truth within society.
TRV