### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shibʻâthayim**, represented by `{{H7659}}`, is an adverbial term meaning **seven-times** or **seven-fold**. It is the dual form of its base word, שֶׁבַע. Appearing just **7 times** across **7 unique verses**, its usage consistently signifies a complete, intensified, or perfect measure in a given context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7659}}` is used to convey a sense of divine completeness or intensity. It first appears to establish a standard of absolute retribution, where the LORD declares that vengeance for anyone who slays Cain will be taken **sevenfold** [[Genesis 4:15]]. The term also describes perfect purification, as the words of the LORD are likened to silver purified **seven times** [[Psalms 12:6]]. In a prophetic sense, it points to a future of divine restoration where the light of the sun will be **sevenfold** on the day the LORD heals His people [[Isaiah 30:26]]. It is also applied to legal restitution, where a thief, if found, must restore **sevenfold** [[Proverbs 6:31]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are built from the same root, expanding on the concept of seven:
* `{{H7651}}` **shebaʻ**: This is the primitive cardinal number for seven, defined as "the sacred full one." It is often used to denote a complete set or cycle, such as when a just man falls **seven times** and rises again [[Proverbs 24:16]] or the **seven** things the LORD hates [[Proverbs 6:16]].
* `{{H7657}}` **shibʻîym**: As a multiple of `shebaʻ`, this word means **seventy**. It frequently marks significant groups or periods of time, such as the **seventy** elders who prophesied [[Numbers 11:25]] or the **seventy** years of desolation for Jerusalem [[Daniel 9:2]]. A single verse highlights the relationship between these terms, where Lamech boasts that if Cain is avenged **sevenfold** `{{H7659}}`, he will be avenged **seventy** `{{H7657}}` and **sevenfold** `{{H7651}}` [[Genesis 4:24]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7659}}` lies in its expression of divine completeness and intensity.
* **Divine Justice and Retribution:** The term sets a precedent for full and measured consequence. God's protection of Cain involves a **sevenfold** vengeance [[Genesis 4:15]], and this same measure is later invoked in a psalmist's plea for God to render back reproach **sevenfold** [[Psalms 79:12]].
* **Absolute Purity:** The concept is used to describe the perfect nature of God's word, which is presented as flawless, like silver that has been purified **seven times** [[Psalms 12:6]]. This signifies a standard of holiness that is complete and without defect.
* **Full Restoration:** The word implies a restoration that is divinely amplified. A thief must provide a **sevenfold** restitution [[Proverbs 6:31]], and in God's ultimate act of healing for his people, the light itself will be increased **sevenfold** [[Isaiah 30:26]], pointing to a restoration that is perfect and overwhelming.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7659}}` **shibʻâthayim** is a powerful adverb that communicates a sense of ultimate measure and divine perfection. It is consistently applied to concepts requiring an absolute standard, whether in justice, purity, or restoration. From the **sevenfold** vengeance protecting Cain [[Genesis 4:15]] to the **sevenfold** purification of the LORD's words [[Psalms 12:6]], the term marks an action or quality as total and divinely ordained. It illustrates a key feature of biblical language, where numbers carry significant theological weight, defining the very nature of God's perfect standards.
TRV