(Aramaic) corresponding to שֶׁבַע; {seven (as the sacred full one); also (adverbially) seven times; by implication, a week; by extension, an indefinite number}; seven (times).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **shibʻâh**, represented by `{{H7655}}`, means **seven** or **seven times**. According to its base definition, it can denote the "sacred full one," a week, or an indefinite number. It appears 6 times across 6 unique verses in the Bible, primarily in contexts of appointed time and intensity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7655}}` is used to define specific quantities and durations. When Nebuchadnezzar was enraged at Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, he commanded that the furnace be heated "one **seven times** more" than usual [[Daniel 3:19]], using the number to express extreme intensity. The term is most frequently associated with the period of Nebuchadnezzar's humbling, where it is prophesied four times that "**seven** times" would pass over him until he acknowledged God's sovereignty ([[Daniel 4:16]], [[Daniel 4:23]], [[Daniel 4:25]], [[Daniel 4:32]]). The word also appears in a governmental context, describing the king's "**seven** counsellors" who sent Ezra to Jerusalem [[Ezra 7:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide a fuller context for the use of `{{H7655}}`:
* `{{H5732}}` **ʻiddân** (time): This word is consistently paired with `{{H7655}}` to signify a set duration. In the prophecies concerning Nebuchadnezzar, the phrase "**seven** times" ([[Daniel 4:16]], [[Daniel 4:25]], [[Daniel 4:32]]) uses `{{H5732}}` to establish a specific period of divine judgment.
* `{{H2298}}` **chad** (one): This term for **one** or **first** is used directly alongside `{{H7655}}` to emphasize the magnitude of Nebuchadnezzar's command to heat the furnace "**one** seven times more" [[Daniel 3:19]]. It establishes a single, intensified measure.
### Theological Significance
The symbolic weight of `{{H7655}}` is evident in its application.
* **A Measure of Divine Judgment:** The number is used repeatedly to mark the full, preordained length of Nebuchadnezzar's madness. The passing of "**seven** times" represents the complete duration required for him to be humbled before the most High ([[Daniel 4:25]], [[Daniel 4:32]]).
* **Completeness and Intensity:** The base definition of `{{H7655}}` as the "sacred full one" is reflected in its usage. Heating a furnace **seven times** more suggests heating it to its maximum, or a complete, intensity [[Daniel 3:19]].
* **Fullness in Counsel:** The mention of "**seven** counsellors" of the king points to a complete advisory body, reflecting a structure of fullness in a royal court [[Ezra 7:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7655}}` carries a meaning beyond its simple numerical value. It consistently signifies a concept of fullness or completeness. Whether marking the full duration of a divine judgment, the complete intensity of a furnace's heat, or the full roster of a king's advisors, **shibʻâh** functions within the Aramaic portions of Scripture to denote a specific and significant measure.
TRV