### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **shᵉbaq**, represented by `{{H7662}}`, means to quit, allow to remain, leave, or let alone. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. The term consistently conveys a deliberate decision to either permit something to continue or to preserve a part of something while the rest is removed or judged.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H7662}}` appears in contexts of both divine judgment and sovereign decree. In the book of Daniel, it is central to Nebuchadnezzar's vision of the great tree; the command is to hew down the tree but to **leave** the stump and its roots in the earth ([[Daniel 4:15]], [[Daniel 4:23]]). This act of leaving a remnant is explained as a promise that the kingdom would be restored [[Daniel 4:26]]. The word is also used to describe the eternal nature of God's kingdom, which shall not be **left** to other people [[Daniel 2:44]]. In Ezra, a royal decree commands that the work on the house of God be **let alone**, allowing the project to proceed without interference [[Ezra 6:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide a fuller context for the meaning of `{{H7662}}`:
* `{{H1414}}` **gᵉdad** (to cut down; hew down): This word is used in direct opposition to `{{H7662}}` in the command to **hew down** the tree but **leave** its stump, illustrating the contrast between destruction and preservation [[Daniel 4:23]].
* `{{H2255}}` **chăbal** (to ruin; destroy, hurt): Used to describe what will not happen to God's kingdom, it will not be **destroyed**, nor will it be **left** to others [[Daniel 2:44]]. This pairing distinguishes between utter ruin and the transfer of authority.
* `{{H321}}` **ʼochŏrân** ((an-) other): This word clarifies the destination of the action being forbidden in [[Daniel 2:44]], where the kingdom will not be **left** to **other** people.
* `{{H5673}}` **ʻăbîydâh** (labor or business; affairs, service, work): This is the object of the command in [[Ezra 6:7]], where the officials are told to let the **work** on the house of God **alone**.
### Theological Significance
The conceptual significance of `{{H7662}}` is expressed through its specific applications:
* **Preservation Through Judgment:** The command to **leave** the stump of the tree shows that God's judgment does not always mean total annihilation. It can involve the preservation of a remnant with the potential for future restoration, as seen in the promise that Nebuchadnezzar's kingdom would be sure to him [[Daniel 4:26]].
* **Permanence of God's Kingdom:** By stating that the future kingdom will not be **left** to other people, the word underscores the unending and untransferable nature of God's rule. His authority is absolute and eternal [[Daniel 2:44]].
* **Authoritative Permission:** The decree in Ezra to **let alone** the rebuilding of the temple demonstrates an exercise of authority through non-interference. It is a command to permit God's will to be done without hindrance [[Ezra 6:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7662}}` carries a meaning beyond simple departure. It signifies a conscious and authoritative act to allow something to remain. Whether preserving a remnant through judgment, affirming the permanence of a divine kingdom, or permitting God's work to continue, **shᵉbaq** consistently points to a deliberate choice that has significant theological and historical consequences.
TRV