(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).
Transliteration:shibʻâh
Pronunciation:shib-aw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic term H7655 (שִׁבְעָה, *shibʻâh*) directly corresponds to the Hebrew `{{H7651}}` (שֶׁבַע, *shevaʻ*), both signifying the cardinal number "seven." Its semantic range extends beyond a mere numerical quantity, encompassing profound theological and symbolic implications. At its core, H7655 denotes completeness, perfection, and divine fullness. Adverbially, it can mean "seven times," emphasizing intensity, repetition, or a full measure of something. By implication, it refers to a "week," a cycle of seven days, reflecting the divine ordering of time. Furthermore, in certain contexts, it can be used hyperbolically to denote an indefinite, yet complete, number, suggesting totality or a significant, often divinely ordained, quantity. The underlying sense is often one of sacredness and the culmination of a process or period.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
As an Aramaic term, H7655 appears primarily in the books of Daniel and Ezra, reflecting the language of the Babylonian and Persian courts. Its usage consistently reinforces the themes of completeness, duration, and divine action.
In the book of Daniel, H7655 is notably employed to describe the furnace heated for Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego: "Therefore he commanded that the furnace should be heated seven times more than it was usually heated" [[Daniel 3:19]]. Here, "seven times" (שִׁבְעָה פִּי) signifies an extreme, unprecedented intensity, highlighting the miraculous deliverance that follows.
Perhaps the most significant use of H7655 in Daniel is in the account of Nebuchadnezzar's madness, where it is prophesied that "seven times shall pass over you" [[Daniel 4:16]], a phrase repeated in [[Daniel 4:23]], [[Daniel 4:25]], and [[Daniel 4:32]]. This signifies a divinely appointed period of judgment and humiliation, a complete cycle of time necessary for the king to acknowledge God's sovereignty. The "seven times" represent a full measure of divine discipline, leading to a complete transformation and restoration.
In Ezra, H7655 appears in the context of King Artaxerxes' decree concerning the rebuilding of the temple: "For you are sent by the king and his seven counselors" [[Ezra 7:14]]. Here, the "seven counselors" (שִׁבְעָה יָעֲטָא) denote a complete and authoritative body, emphasizing the legitimacy and weight of the royal decree. This usage underscores the administrative and authoritative aspect often associated with the number seven in ancient Near Eastern contexts.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is its Hebrew counterpart, `{{H7651}}` (שֶׁבַע), which carries the same core meaning and symbolic weight throughout the Hebrew Bible. The Aramaic H7655 functions as a direct linguistic parallel, maintaining the rich semantic and theological associations of "seven."
Conceptually, H7655 is intrinsically linked to notions of:
* **Divine Order and Creation:** The seven days of creation (`{{H3117}}` - day; `{{H7651}}` - seven) establish a foundational pattern of divine completeness and rest, influencing the concept of the Sabbath.
* **Covenant and Oath:** The Hebrew root *sh-b-ʻ* (related to seven) is often associated with "swearing an oath" (`{{H7650}}` - *shabaʻ*), implying a binding, complete, and divinely witnessed agreement.
* **Cycles of Time:** Beyond the week, the number seven underpins the sabbatical year (`{{H7677}}` - *shabbaton*) and the Jubilee year (49 or 7x7 years), demonstrating God's rhythmic ordering of time and His provisions for restoration and liberation.
* **Purification and Consecration:** Many biblical rituals involve the number seven, signifying complete purification, consecration, or a full measure of sacrifice.
* **Divine Judgment and Restoration:** As seen in Daniel, the number seven often marks a complete period of divine chastisement or a full cycle of events leading to a divinely orchestrated outcome.
* **Perfection and Wholeness:** In broader biblical numerology, seven frequently symbolizes spiritual perfection, completeness, and the fulfillment of God's purposes.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of H7655 (and its Hebrew equivalent) is profound, permeating the biblical narrative from creation to eschatology. It speaks to God's meticulous design, His sovereign control over time and events, and the completeness of His redemptive plan.
The recurring motif of "seven" underscores the concept of **divine completeness and perfection**. From the seven days of creation, culminating in God's rest, to the seven spirits of God in Revelation, the number signifies a finished work, a perfect order, or a full manifestation of divine attributes. In Daniel, the "seven times" passing over Nebuchadnezzar illustrate God's **sovereign judgment and redemptive discipline**, demonstrating that even the most powerful human rulers are subject to His preordained cycles and purposes. The duration was precisely what was needed for the king to learn humility and acknowledge the Most High.
Furthermore, H7655 points to **God's establishment of sacred cycles and rhythms**. The week, the Sabbath, and the sabbatical years are divine institutions that reflect God's ordering of time for human flourishing, rest, and remembrance of His covenant faithfulness. The "seven counselors" in Ezra reflect a divinely sanctioned authority, indicating that even human governance can operate under a complete and legitimate structure, implicitly reflecting divine order.
Ultimately, the consistent use of H7655 in Aramaic texts, mirroring its Hebrew counterpart, reinforces the biblical testimony to a God who works in perfect measure, bringing His plans to complete fruition, whether in judgment, restoration, or the establishment of His kingdom.
### Summary
H7655 (שִׁבְעָה, *shibʻâh*) is the Aramaic term for "seven," mirroring the Hebrew `{{H7651}}` (שֶׁבַע). Its core meaning extends beyond a simple numerical value to represent completeness, perfection, and divine fullness. In its adverbial form, "seven times," it denotes intensity or a full measure. The term is found in the Aramaic portions of Daniel and Ezra, where it consistently highlights themes of divine sovereignty and predetermined periods. In Daniel, it describes the extreme heat of the furnace ([[Daniel 3:19]]) and the divinely ordained duration of Nebuchadnezzar's judgment ([[Daniel 4:16]]). In Ezra, it references the "seven counselors" of the king, indicating a complete and authoritative body ([[Ezra 7:14]]). Theologically, H7655 underscores God's meticulous design, His sovereign control over time and events, and the completeness of His purposes, whether in creation, judgment, or the establishment of order. It serves as a powerful reminder of the sacred and perfect nature often associated with the number seven throughout biblical revelation.
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