### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shᵉbîyʻîy**, represented by `{{H7637}}`, is the ordinal number for **seventh**. It appears **98 times** across **94 unique verses**, establishing its importance in scripture. Derived from the word for seven, it signifies completion, divine rest, and holiness. It is used to mark specific days, months, and years that are set apart for sacred purposes according to God's commands.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7637}}` is used in several key contexts. Its foundational use is in the creation account, where God blessed and sanctified the **seventh** day because on it He rested from all His work [[Genesis 2:3]]. This establishes the Sabbath as the **seventh** day, a holy convocation and a day of rest [[Leviticus 23:3]]. The concept extends to years, with the **seventh** year designated for the release of Hebrew servants [[Exodus 21:2]] and for the land to rest [[Leviticus 25:4]]. The **seventh** month is also marked by significant feasts, including the Day of Atonement [[Leviticus 16:29]]. Furthermore, the **seventh** day often marks the culmination of a ritual or event, such as the final day of purification [[Numbers 19:19]] or the final march around Jericho [[Joshua 6:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the biblical concept of seven and sacred time:
* `{{H7651}}` **shebaʻ** (seven): The cardinal number for seven, it often appears with `{{H7637}}` to establish patterns of completeness, such as the **seven** priests with **seven** trumpets marching for **seven** days [[Joshua 6:4]].
* `{{H7676}}` **shabbâth** (sabbath): Meaning intermission, this term is intrinsically linked to the **seventh** day, which is the **sabbath** of the LORD [[Exodus 20:10]].
* `{{H7677}}` **shabbâthôwn** (rest, sabbath): A sabbatism or special holiday, this word emphasizes the complete cessation from work that defines the **seventh** day and the **seventh** year ([[Leviticus 23:3]], [[Leviticus 25:4]]).
* `{{H8141}}` **shâneh** (year): This word for a year is crucial for understanding the Sabbatical cycle, where the **seventh** year is a period of rest and release from debt [[Nehemiah 10:31]].
* `{{H2320}}` **chôdesh** (month): The **seventh** month is set apart for major religious observances, making it a focal point in Israel's calendar [[Leviticus 23:24]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7637}}` is immense, structuring Israel's relationship with God through time.
* **Divine Pattern of Rest:** The concept begins with God's own rest on the **seventh** day of creation, establishing a divine model for humanity to follow [[Exodus 31:17]]. This act of resting and being refreshed sets the **seventh** day apart.
* **Sanctification of Time:** The word is central to marking time as holy. The **seventh** day is a consecrated Sabbath [[Exodus 31:15]], the **seventh** year is a Sabbath for the land [[Leviticus 25:4]], and the **seventh** month contains holy convocations [[Numbers 29:1]].
* **Covenantal Release and Mercy:** The laws of the **seventh** year demonstrate God's mercy and justice within the covenant. It is a time for freeing servants [[Deuteronomy 15:12]] and letting the land lie fallow so the poor may eat [[Exodus 23:11]].
* **Culmination and Fulfillment:** The **seventh** instance often signifies a point of fulfillment. This is seen when the walls of Jericho fall on the **seventh** day [[Joshua 6:15-16]] and when purification from defilement is complete on the **seventh** day [[Numbers 19:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7637}}` moves far beyond a simple numerical position. It is a cornerstone of the biblical calendar and law, embedding the concepts of divine completion, rest, and holiness into the rhythm of life. From the weekly Sabbath that recalls creation to the Sabbatical year that provides release and restoration, the **seventh** interval consistently points to God's perfect order and sacred appointments for His people.
TRV