### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **שָׁבַר (shâbar)**, represented by `{{H7666}}`, is a denominative from שֶׁבֶר and means **to deal in grain**, encompassing both buying and selling. It appears 21 times across 20 unique verses, primarily illustrating commercial transactions essential for survival and commerce in the ancient world.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7666}}` is most prominent in the story of Joseph during the great famine. As governor over Egypt, Joseph was the one who **sold** `{{H7666}}` grain to all the people of the land [[Genesis 42:6]]. This act of selling became the means of survival for many, including his own family, as his brothers traveled from Canaan specifically to **buy** `{{H7666}}` food [[Genesis 42:7]]. The word is also used prophetically to condemn unethical trade practices, as seen when Amos rebukes merchants eager for the sabbath to end so they can **sell** `{{H7666}}` corn using deceitful measures [[Amos 8:5]]. In a powerful spiritual metaphor, Isaiah invites the thirsty to **buy** `{{H7666}}` wine and milk without money and without price [[Isaiah 55:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the act of buying and selling grain:
* `{{H7668}}` **sheber** (corn, victuals): This word, from which `{{H7666}}` is derived, represents the very commodity being traded. It is the **corn** that Jacob heard was in Egypt, prompting him to send his sons to buy it [[Genesis 42:2]].
* `{{H7069}}` **qânâh** (buy, get, possess): This term for purchasing is used in a parallel context, such as when Amos condemns those who would **buy** `{{H7069}}` the poor for silver and **sell** `{{H7666}}` the refuse of the wheat [[Amos 8:6]].
* `{{H3701}}` **keçeph** (silver, money): As the primary medium of exchange, this word is central to the transactions involving `{{H7666}}`. Joseph gathered all the **money** for the corn which the people bought [[Genesis 47:14]].
* `{{H7458}}` **râʻâb** (famine): This term describes the dire circumstance that often necessitated the use of `{{H7666}}`. It was because the **famine** was so sore in all lands that countries came to Egypt to buy corn [[Genesis 41:57]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7666}}` is demonstrated through its various applications.
* **Divine Providence:** The act of buying and selling grain is a central part of God's plan to preserve life during the famine. Jacob commands his sons to go to Egypt and **buy** `{{H7666}}` so "that we may live, and not die" [[Genesis 42:2]], showing how a simple commercial act becomes an instrument of divine salvation.
* **Ethical Commerce and Justice:** The word is used to highlight the moral dimension of trade. Proverbs promises a blessing on the one who **selleth** `{{H7666}}` corn [[Proverbs 11:26]], while Amos uses the same word to condemn merchants who use their business to exploit the needy [[Amos 8:5-6]].
* **Spiritual Sustenance:** Isaiah elevates the concept from a physical transaction to a spiritual one. The invitation to **buy** `{{H7666}}` food and drink "without money and without price" [[Isaiah 55:1]] illustrates that God’s life-giving grace and sustenance are available freely to all who are thirsty.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7666}}` moves from a literal term for commerce to a word carrying significant theological meaning. Rooted in the buying and selling of grain for physical survival, as seen in the Joseph narrative, it also serves as a benchmark for social justice in the marketplace. Ultimately, it is transformed into a powerful metaphor for the free gift of spiritual life offered by God to a world in need.
TRV