or (feminine) שִׁבֹּלֶת; from the same as שֹׁבֶל; a stream (as flowing); also an ear of grain (as growing out); by analogy, a branch; branch, channel, ear (of corn), (water-)flood, Shibboleth. Compare סִבֹּלֶת.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shibbôl**, represented by `{{H7641}}`, carries several distinct meanings, including **ear of grain**, a **stream** or **flood**, and a **branch**. It appears **19 times** across **16 unique verses**. This word's versatility allows it to describe both agricultural abundance and overwhelming natural forces.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the Bible, `{{H7641}}` is used in various significant contexts. Most notably, it appears repeatedly in the narrative of Pharaoh's dream, where seven **good** `{{H2896}}` **ears** `{{H7641}}` on a single stalk signify years of plenty, while seven **thin** `{{H1851}}` and **blasted** `{{H7710}}` **ears** represent a coming famine [[Genesis 41:5-7]]. The word is also used to describe a rushing **stream** or **flood**, as when the psalmist feels overwhelmed by deep waters [[Psalms 69:2]]. In Zechariah's vision, it refers to two olive **branches** `{{H7641}}` that supply golden oil [[Zechariah 4:12]]. Famously, it is used as a test word, **Shibboleth**, to identify and slay the Ephraimites who could not pronounce it correctly [[Judges 12:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the contexts in which `{{H7641}}` is used:
* `{{H7054}}` **qâmâh** (something that rises, i.e. a stalk of grain): This refers to standing corn, often the source of the **ears** `{{H7641}}` that a **harvestman** `{{H7105}}` gathers [[Isaiah 17:5]].
* `{{H1277}}` **bârîyʼ** (fatted or plump): This term describes the healthy and **rank** `{{H1277}}` **ears** `{{H7641}}` in Pharaoh's dream, symbolizing prosperity and abundance [[Genesis 41:5]].
* `{{H2132}}` **zayith** (an olive): In Zechariah's vision, `{{H7641}}` is used to specify **olive** `{{H2132}}` branches, connecting the word to a source of blessing and anointing [[Zechariah 4:12]].
### Theological Significance
The symbolic weight of `{{H7641}}` is significant and varied.
* **Symbol of Divine Judgment and Provision:** The word represents both sides of God's sovereignty. In Genesis, **good** `{{H2896}}` **ears** `{{H7641}}` signify years of plenty, while **empty** `{{H7386}}` ears foretell a devastating **famine** `{{H7458}}` [[Genesis 41:27]]. Similarly, as a **flood** `{{H7641}}`, it can represent overwhelming destruction [[Psalms 69:2]].
* **A Test of Identity:** The term's use as **Shibboleth** in Judges marks it as a stark symbol of division. The ability to pronounce it became a literal matter of life and death, separating friend from foe at the passages of the Jordan [[Judges 12:6]].
* **Conduit of Divine Blessing:** In contrast to judgment, the olive **branches** `{{H7641}}` in Zechariah's vision act as channels for a continuous flow of **golden** `{{H2091}}` oil, symbolizing an unending supply of God's anointing and grace [[Zechariah 4:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7641}}` is a multifaceted word that shifts from the agricultural field to the torrents of a river. It serves as a powerful symbol for both life-giving abundance, seen in the **full** `{{H4392}}` **ears** of corn [[Genesis 41:7]] and olive **branches** [[Zechariah 4:12]], and for life-threatening peril, as in the devastating **floods** [[Psalms 69:2]] and the divisive test of **Shibboleth** [[Judges 12:6]]. Its meaning is deeply tied to context, illustrating divine provision, judgment, and identity throughout the biblical narrative.
TRV