the same as שֶׁבֶר; grain (as if broken into kernels); corn, victuals.
Transliteration:sheber
Pronunciation:sheh'-ber
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H7668}}` (שֶׁבֶר, *sheber*) primarily denotes "grain," "corn," or "victuals." Its semantic range is tightly focused on foodstuffs, specifically those derived from cereals, often implying a state of being processed or prepared for consumption, as if "broken into kernels." This meaning is distinct from, yet etymologically related to, the root `{{H7665}}` (שָׁבַר, *shabar*), meaning "to break." While `{{H7667}}` (שֶׁבֶר, *sheber*) refers to a "breaking," "fracture," or "ruin" (also from `{{H7665}}`), `{{H7668}}` specifically refers to the *product* of breaking, i.e., the kernels or grain itself. This distinction is crucial for accurate interpretation, as the two homographs carry vastly different connotations despite sharing the same spelling. In essence, `{{H7668}}` signifies the staple foodstuff acquired or traded, particularly in contexts of sustenance and commerce.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of `{{H7668}}` are concentrated in narratives dealing with famine, provision, and economic exchange, most notably within the book of Genesis. The most prominent usage is found in the story of Joseph, where the term repeatedly describes the grain that Jacob's sons travel to Egypt to purchase during the severe famine:
* In [[Genesis 42:1]], Jacob instructs his sons, "Why do you look at one another? Behold, I have heard that there is `{{H7668}}` in Egypt. Go down there and buy for us from there, that we may live and not die." This verse establishes `{{H7668}}` as essential for survival.
* [[Genesis 42:2]], [[Genesis 42:3]], [[Genesis 42:5]], and [[Genesis 42:19]] further reinforce this theme, with the brothers going "to buy `{{H7668}}`" or bringing `{{H7668}}` back for their families.
* In [[Genesis 43:2]], Jacob again urges his sons, "Go again, buy us a little `{{H7668}}`," highlighting the ongoing need for sustenance.
* [[Genesis 44:2]] mentions the steward putting "every man's money in the mouth of his sack, and his `{{H7668}}` money in the mouth of his sack," referring to the payment for the grain.
Beyond Genesis, `{{H7668}}` appears in contexts related to economic and social practices:
* [[Nehemiah 10:31]] speaks of the people of the land bringing "wares or `{{H7668}}`" on the Sabbath day to sell, indicating its role in everyday commerce.
* [[Amos 8:5-6]] uses `{{H7668}}` in a prophetic denunciation of social injustice. The wicked are depicted as eager to "buy the poor for silver and the needy for a pair of sandals, and sell the refuse of the `{{H7668}}`." Here, `{{H7668}}` represents the very commodity being exploited, emphasizing the moral corruption of those who adulterate or sell inferior grain to the vulnerable.
Across these contexts, `{{H7668}}` consistently refers to grain as a commodity, often acquired through purchase, and vital for sustaining life, particularly in times of scarcity.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for `{{H7668}}` is its root, `{{H7665}}` (שָׁבַר, *shabar*), "to break." This derivation is key to understanding the noun's meaning as "broken" kernels or grain. It stands in contrast to `{{H7667}}` (שֶׁבֶר), a homograph also derived from `{{H7665}}`, but meaning "breaking," "fracture," "ruin," or "disaster" (e.g., [[Isaiah 1:28]], [[Jeremiah 4:6]]). The careful distinction between these two sheber words is paramount for accurate exegesis.
Conceptually, `{{H7668}}` relates to other Hebrew terms for foodstuffs, such as `{{H1715}}` (דָּגָן, *dagan*), "grain" in a more general sense, often referring to raw produce; `{{H2406}}` (חִטָּה, *chittah*), "wheat"; and `{{H8184}}` (שְׂעֹרָה, *se'orah*), "barley." While these terms refer to specific types of grain, `{{H7668}}` often carries the nuance of grain as a purchased commodity, especially in times of need.
The concept of "provision" (e.g., `{{H618}}` אֹכֶל, *okel*, "food") is closely linked, as `{{H7668}}` represents a fundamental means of sustenance. Its frequent appearance in famine narratives connects it strongly with themes of scarcity, survival, and divine intervention.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H7668}}` is profound, particularly within the Joseph narrative. Here, the provision of `{{H7668}}` becomes a tangible manifestation of God's sovereign care and providential plan.
* **Divine Providence and Preservation:** God uses Joseph's wisdom and position to gather and distribute `{{H7668}}`, thereby preserving not only Egypt but also Jacob's family—the nascent nation of Israel. This act of provision is essential for the continuation of the covenant line, ultimately leading to the birth of the Messiah. The `{{H7668}}` thus symbolizes God's faithfulness in sustaining His people even through severe trials.
* **Human Dependence on God:** The desperate need for `{{H7668}}` during the famine underscores humanity's fundamental dependence on God for basic necessities. It reminds believers that all sustenance ultimately flows from the Creator's hand, fostering humility and trust.
* **Justice and Righteousness:** In prophetic texts like Amos, the misuse or exploitation related to `{{H7668}}` highlights God's concern for social justice. Those who defraud the poor by selling them inferior `{{H7668}}` are condemned, revealing that economic practices are not morally neutral but fall under God's righteous judgment. This extends the theological implication beyond mere physical sustenance to the ethical responsibilities of those who control resources.
### Summary
`{{H7668}}` (שֶׁבֶר, *sheber*) denotes "grain," "corn," or "victuals," specifically referring to foodstuffs acquired or traded, particularly in times of necessity. Though sharing a root and spelling with `{{H7667}}` (meaning "breaking" or "ruin"), `{{H7668}}` is distinct in its focus on the edible product of broken kernels. Its most significant biblical appearances are in the Genesis account of Joseph, where the provision of `{{H7668}}` signifies God's divine providence, His preservation of the covenant people, and humanity's dependence on Him for sustenance. Furthermore, its usage in prophetic literature underscores God's demand for justice and ethical conduct in economic dealings, particularly concerning the basic necessities of life.
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