### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **sêber**, represented by `{{H7664}}`, translates to **expectation** or **hope**. Though it appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, its usage points to a specific and deeply rooted confidence. It is not a mere wish, but a focused expectation placed in a trustworthy source.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{H7664}}` is always directed toward God. [[Psalms 146:5]] describes the happy man as one whose **hope** is in the LORD, identifying God as his help `{{H5828}}`. This ties the concept directly to a personal reliance on the God `{{H410}}` of Jacob `{{H3290}}`. In [[Psalms 119:116]], the psalmist asks God to uphold him according to His word `{{H565}}` and pleads, "let me not be ashamed `{{H954}}` of my **hope**." This connects the expectation to the reliability of God's promises, which give life `{{H2421}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the nature of this hope:
* `{{H3068}}` **Yᵉhôvâh** (the Lord): As the self-Existent or Eternal God, He is the explicit object of the **hope** described in [[Psalms 146:5]]. Scripture consistently portrays Him as the one to be trusted [[Proverbs 3:5]] and waited for [[Isaiah 40:31]].
* `{{H565}}` **'imrâh** (word): This term for something said or a commandment is the foundation of hope in [[Psalms 119:116]]. God's word is presented as tried and pure [[Psalms 18:30]] and is what gives life [[Psalms 119:50]], making it a reliable basis for expectation.
* `{{H954}}` **bûwsh** (ashamed): This word, meaning to be ashamed or disappointed, is used as a contrast to hope. The plea not to be ashamed of one's hope [[Psalms 119:116]] implies that hope in God is secure and will not fail, unlike other hopes. The Bible affirms that those who wait for the Lord will not be ashamed [[Isaiah 49:23]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H7664}}` is centered on the character of God.
* **The Object of Hope:** Biblical hope is not abstract. It is a confident expectation directed specifically at the LORD `{{H3068}}`, who is the source of all help and strength [[Psalms 146:5]].
* **Grounded in God's Word:** The expectation is based on God's revealed character and promises. The psalmist relies on God's word `{{H565}}` to sustain him, demonstrating that this hope is built upon a firm foundation [[Psalms 119:116]].
* **A Confident Expectation:** The connection between hope `{{H7664}}` and the avoidance of shame `{{H954}}` shows that it is a certain and validated trust. It is an assurance that God's faithfulness will vindicate the one who hopes in Him.
### Summary
In summary, **sêber** `{{H7664}}` provides a concise yet powerful definition of godly hope. Though rare, it clearly defines hope not as a vague desire but as a focused **expectation** in the person of the LORD `{{H3068}}` and the promises found in His word `{{H565}}`. This hope is a source of life and a confident assurance that does not lead to disappointment.
TRV