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.
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.
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.
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.
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