### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **sâbâʻ**, represented by `{{H7647}}`, translates to **copiousness**, **abundance**, or **plenteousness**. It appears **8 times** across **8 unique verses**, primarily describing a state of material fullness and prosperity. The word is often used to signify a period of great provision, contrasting sharply with times of lack.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The most significant use of `{{H7647}}` is in the narrative of Joseph in Egypt, where it frames the economic cycle of feast and famine. It describes the "seven **plenteous** years" [[Genesis 41:34]] and the "great **plenty**" [[Genesis 41:29]] that would cover the land. This abundance is portrayed as so complete that the earth "brought forth by handfuls" [[Genesis 41:47]]. However, this **plenty** is also shown to be temporary, destined to be "forgotten" and "consumed" by the subsequent famine [[Genesis 41:30]]. Outside of Genesis, the term is used to describe the blessing of barns "filled with **plenty**" [[Proverbs 3:10]] and, in a contrasting sense, the **abundance** of the rich that prevents sleep [[Ecclesiastes 5:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the scope of `{{H7647}}`:
* `{{H4390}}` **mâlêʼ** (to fill or be full of): This word is directly paired with **sâbâʻ** to describe barns that are "filled with **plenty**" [[Proverbs 3:10]], reinforcing the idea of a space being brought to its maximum capacity with provisions.
* `{{H7458}}` **râʻâb** (famine): This term serves as the direct antonym to **sâbâʻ** in the Genesis narrative. The years of **plenty** are set in opposition to the devastating **famine** that follows, highlighting the extreme contrast between abundance and scarcity [[Genesis 41:30]].
* `{{H7651}}` **shebaʻ** (seven): This number is intrinsically linked to **sâbâʻ** in the story of Egypt, quantifying the duration of both the "**plenteous** years" and the famine that follows, establishing a divinely appointed pattern of time [[Genesis 41:53]].
### Theological Significance
The concept of `{{H7647}}` carries significant thematic weight in scripture, illustrating several key principles:
* **Divine Provision:** The "great **plenty**" in Egypt is a direct result of God's foreknowledge and provision, a blessing intended to preserve life. Similarly, Proverbs frames **plenty** as a result of honoring the Lord [[Proverbs 3:10]].
* **The Transience of Wealth:** The Genesis account powerfully demonstrates that material abundance is not permanent. The **plenty** was so great, yet it was ultimately consumed and forgotten in the face of a severe famine, teaching a lesson on stewardship and preparation [[Genesis 41:31]].
* **The Burden of Abundance:** While often a blessing, **sâbâʻ** can also be a source of anxiety. Ecclesiastes observes that the **abundance** of the rich can prevent them from finding restful sleep, suggesting that material wealth brings its own unique set of troubles [[Ecclesiastes 5:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7647}}` is a focused term that communicates a state of overwhelming material abundance. It is used to illustrate the cycles of God's provision and the trials of scarcity. More than just a descriptor of wealth, **sâbâʻ** serves as a biblical object lesson on the nature of prosperity, highlighting its potential as both a divine blessing and a worldly burden.
TRV