### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shebaʻ**, represented by `{{H7652}}`, is used as a proper name. It appears **10 times** across **10 unique verses** in the Bible. Its base definition identifies it as the name of a place in Palestine and of two Israelites.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7652}}` is most prominent as the name of Sheba, a Benjamite who instigated a rebellion against King David. Described as a "man of Belial" `{{H1100}}`, he blew a trumpet and declared, "We have no part in David" [[2 Samuel 20:1]], causing the men of Israel to abandon the king [[2 Samuel 20:2]]. David recognized Sheba as a significant threat [[2 Samuel 20:6]], leading to a pursuit led by Joab [[2 Samuel 20:10]]. The conflict ended when a wise woman negotiated the delivery of Sheba's head to Joab, saving her city from destruction [[2 Samuel 20:21-22]]. The name is also used for a town in Palestine, listed as part of an inheritance [[Joshua 19:2]], and for an Israelite man named in a list of brethren [[1 Chronicles 5:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the identity and context of Sheba the rebel:
* `{{H1100}}` **bᵉlîyaʻal** (without profit, worthlessness): Sheba is explicitly called a "man of Belial," a term used to signify wickedness and ungodly men [[2 Samuel 20:1]].
* `{{H1075}}` **Bikrîy** (youth-ful): This identifies Sheba's father as Bichri, establishing his direct lineage within the narrative of the rebellion [[2 Samuel 20:1]].
* `{{H1145}}` **Ben-yᵉmîynîy** (a Benjaminite, or descendent of Benjamin): This tribal identifier is crucial, as Sheba is introduced as "a Benjamite," providing context for the political division he attempts to create [[2 Samuel 20:1]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative of `{{H7652}}` carries significant theological weight, illustrating key principles of order and rebellion.
* **Division within the Kingdom:** Sheba's cry for every man to return "to his tents, O Israel" [[2 Samuel 20:1]] serves as a stark example of internal strife and rebellion against God's anointed king. This action split the loyalties of the nation, with the men of Judah choosing to "clave unto their king" [[2 Samuel 20:2]].
* **The Nature of Wickedness:** By identifying Sheba as a "man of Belial" `{{H1100}}`, the text characterizes his rebellion not as a legitimate political grievance but as an act of worthlessness and wickedness that threatens the stability of the kingdom [[2 Samuel 20:1]].
* **The Triumph of Wisdom:** The resolution to the crisis comes not through a massive battle, but through the intervention of a "woman... in her wisdom" `{{H2451}}` [[2 Samuel 20:22]]. She negotiates an end to the siege by having the people deliver Sheba's head, demonstrating that wisdom is a powerful tool for restoring peace and order [[2 Samuel 20:21-22]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7652}}` is not a theological term but a proper name whose significance is found primarily in the narrative of Sheba, son of Bichri. His story serves as a powerful biblical case study on the destructive nature of rebellion and division. Identified as a man of "Belial" `{{H1100}}`, his actions threatened to tear apart the kingdom of Israel. Ultimately, his downfall illustrates that wickedness is met with judgment, and that divinely-inspired wisdom can overcome conflict and preserve the community.
TRV