### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Shibʻâh**, represented by `{{H7656}}`, is the proper name for **Shebah, a well in Palestine**. This name is exceptionally specific, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, highlighting its singular role in the scriptural narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H7656}}` is in [[Genesis 26:33]], where it marks a significant moment of naming. The verse states, "And he called it **Shebah**: therefore the name of the city is Beersheba unto this day" [[Genesis 26:33]]. Here, the word is used to give a formal name to a well. This single act of naming directly leads to the establishment of the name for the well-known city of Beersheba `{{H884}}`, embedding the name **Shebah** into the history and geography of the region.
### Related Words & Concepts
The significance of `{{H7656}}` is illuminated by its relationship to the words used in the same verse:
* `{{H7121}}` **qârâʼ**: This word, meaning "to call out to" or "address by name," is the verb used to name the well **Shebah** [[Genesis 26:33]]. It carries a broader biblical weight, used not just for naming places but for calling on God [[Jeremiah 33:3]], being called by God's name [[2 Chronicles 7:14]], and proclaiming His message [[Isaiah 61:1]].
* `{{H884}}` **Bᵉʼêr Shebaʻ**: Defined as "well of an oath," this is the city whose name is directly derived from **Shebah**. Beersheba becomes a major landmark in Israel, marking a geographical boundary [[Judges 20:1]] and serving as a key site for worship and covenant with God ([[Genesis 21:33]], [[Genesis 46:1]]).
### Theological Significance
Though mentioned only once, the theological weight of `{{H7656}}` is found in its foundational role in the naming of Beersheba.
* **A Place of Memorial:** The naming of the well **Shebah** creates a permanent landmark, which becomes the city of Beersheba. This location serves as a recurring place of divine encounter and covenant, where Abraham called on the name of the Lord [[Genesis 21:33]] and Israel later offered sacrifices [[Genesis 46:1]].
* **The Power of a Name:** The act of calling the well **Shebah**, using the verb `{{H7121}}`, connects the physical act of naming to the spiritual theme of "calling" on God. This verb is used when God's people call on His name [[Zechariah 13:9]] and when a future King's name is called Wonderful Counsellor [[Isaiah 9:6]].
* **Geographic and Spiritual Anchor:** Through its link to Beersheba `{{H884}}`, **Shebah** is tied to a place that anchors the nation of Israel, both geographically ("from Beersheba even to Dan" in [[2 Chronicles 30:5]]) and spiritually as a site of worship.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7656}}` is a unique term whose importance far exceeds its frequency. It functions as the etymological root for one of the Old Testament's most significant cities, Beersheba. Through its context, **Shibʻâh** illustrates how the simple act of naming a well can establish a place of lasting historical and theological importance, linking a physical location to the ongoing story of God's covenant with His people.
TRV