infinitive of יָשַׁב; properly, session; but used also concretely, an abode or locality; place, seat. Compare יֹשֵׁב בַּשֶּׁבֶת.
Transliteration:shebeth
Pronunciation:sheh'-beth
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word שֶׁבֶת (transliterated *shebeth*, `{{H7675}}`) is derived from the verbal root יָשַׁב (*yashab*, `{{H3427}}`), meaning "to sit," "to dwell," or "to remain." As an infinitive construct, *shebeth* primarily denotes the *act* of sitting or dwelling, or the *state* of being settled. Its semantic range extends concretely to refer to a "session," a "place" of sitting, a "seat," or an "abode" or "locality." The term thus encompasses both the dynamic action of settling and the static location of residence or position. The definition's note to "Compare יֹשֵׁב בַּשֶּׁבֶת" (yoshev ba-shebeth) highlights this dual aspect, referring to "one who sits in the dwelling/sitting," emphasizing the close relationship between the action and the place.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word *shebeth* (`{{H7675}}`) is exceedingly rare in the Masoretic Text of the Hebrew Bible, with its primary identification often linked to a single occurrence. According to Strong's Concordance, its lone appearance is in [[Isaiah 30:18]]. However, it is crucial for a scholarly analysis to note that the Hebrew text of [[Isaiah 30:18]] does not explicitly contain the lemma שֶׁבֶת (`{{H7675}}`). Instead, the verb used is יְחַכֶּה (*yachakkeh*), from the root חָכָה (*chakah*, meaning "to wait"). The association of *shebeth* with this verse in some lexicons may stem from ancient textual traditions, interpretive readings (Qere), or a conceptual link to the idea of God's "sitting still" or "waiting" in patience.
If we interpret *shebeth* in the context of the root *yashab* as it relates to [[Isaiah 30:18]], it could conceptually underscore the divine attribute of patient "waiting" or "resting" in order to act graciously: "Therefore the LORD waits (*yachakkeh*) to be gracious to you; therefore he will rise up to show you compassion." This interpretation aligns with the broader themes of divine steadfastness and the security found in resting in God's faithfulness, as seen in the preceding verse, [[Isaiah 30:15]]: "In returning and rest (*nachath*) you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength." While *shebeth* is not literally present, its conceptual link to "sitting" or "resting" as an act of trust and patience may be implied by the broader context of the passage.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the root verb יָשַׁב (*yashab*, `{{H3427}}`), from which *shebeth* is derived. This root is fundamental to understanding concepts of dwelling, settling, inhabiting, and remaining.
Other related terms that share semantic overlap with the concrete aspects of *shebeth* include:
* מֹשָׁב (*moshab*, `{{H4186}}`): Often meaning "dwelling place," "seat," or "residence." This noun is very close in meaning and often appears where *shebeth* might conceptually fit.
* מָקוֹם (*maqom*, `{{H4725}}`): A general term for "place" or "location."
* כִּסֵּא (*kisse*, `{{H3678}}`): Specifically refers to a "throne" or "seat," often implying authority or dignity.
* בַּיִת (*bayith*, `{{H1004}}`):
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