### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **shᵉbaṭ**, represented by `{{H7625}}`, is the term for a **clan** or **tribe**. It appears just **1 time** in a single verse in the Bible. As the Aramaic correspondent to the Hebrew שֵׁבֶט, it specifically denotes the major family divisions that constitute the nation of Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical use of `{{H7625}}` occurs during the dedication of the house of God after the return from exile. The passage details the sin offering made on behalf of the entire nation, specifying "twelve he goats, according to the number of the **tribes** of Israel" [[Ezra 6:17]]. This direct reference establishes the twelve tribes as the foundational measure for this act of national atonement.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide essential context for this term's meaning:
* `{{H3479}}` **Yisrâʼêl** (Israel): This word identifies the nation whose foundational structure is being referenced, as the offering is made for "all **Israel**" and according to the number of its tribes [[Ezra 6:17]].
* `{{H4510}}` **minyân** (number): This term for an enumeration is used to explicitly link the quantity of the twelve sacrificial goats to the quantity of tribes, appearing in the phrase "according to the **number** of the tribes" [[Ezra 6:17]].
* `{{H8648}}` **tᵉrêyn** (two, twelve): As part of the Aramaic phrase for "twelve," this word helps establish the specific count of the offering that corresponds to the tribes of Israel [[Ezra 6:17]].
* `{{H6236}}` **ʻăsar** (ten, twelve): This word for ten is used in combination with `{{H8648}}` to form the number "twelve," directly tying the sacrifice to the number of tribes [[Ezra 6:17]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H7625}}` is centered on its singular, powerful context.
* **National Unity:** Its use underscores the concept that the returned exiles represented all of Israel. The offering was not just for those present but for the entire twelve-tribe entity as a unified whole.
* **Covenant Representation:** The sin offering, measured by the number of **tribes**, signifies an atonement meant to cover the entire covenant nation as defined from its origins.
* **Symbolic Reconstitution:** In the pivotal moment of dedicating the new temple, referencing the **tribes** of Israel reaffirms the nation's historic identity and structure before God [[Ezra 6:17]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7625}}` is a precise term whose importance lies in its specific context. While appearing only once, its use in [[Ezra 6:17]] is theologically significant, connecting the sacrificial atonement at the new temple directly to the historic and complete twelve-tribe constitution of Israel. It serves as a marker of national identity and unity for the people of God.
TRV