### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shabbâth**, represented by `{{H7676}}`, is an intensive term derived from the root for "repose" and specifically means **intermission** or **the Sabbath**. It appears 108 times across 89 unique verses in the Bible, indicating its significance. This word defines a day of cessation from labor, a holy observance, and a sign of God's covenant with His people.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7676}}` is established as a foundational practice. It is commanded to be remembered and kept holy [[Exodus 20:8]]. This observance is rooted in God's own act of creation, where He rested on the seventh day and blessed the **sabbath** day [[Exodus 20:11]]. The regulations for the **sabbath** prohibit all work, not just for the individual, but for their entire household, including servants and strangers [[Exodus 20:10]]. The day is a perpetual sign between God and Israel, by which they would know that the LORD sanctifies them [[Exodus 31:13]]. Violating the **sabbath** by working, bearing burdens, or buying and selling was considered a great pollution and profanation, leading to severe consequences, including God's fury and even death ([[Ezekiel 20:13]], [[Jeremiah 17:27]], [[Exodus 31:15]], [[Nehemiah 10:31]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the meaning and practice of the **sabbath**:
* `{{H7673}}` **shâbath** (to repose): As the primitive root of `{{H7676}}`, this word highlights the core concept of ceasing from exertion. It is used to describe the land enjoying its period of rest and the act of celebrating the **sabbath** ([[2 Chronicles 36:21]], [[Leviticus 23:32]]).
* `{{H4399}}` **melâʼkâh** (work): The prohibition of work is central to sabbath observance. The command states, "thou shalt not do any **work**" [[Exodus 20:10]], a rule that is repeated and emphasized throughout the law ([[Jeremiah 17:22]], [[Exodus 35:2]]).
* `{{H6942}}` **qâdash** (to be... holy, sanctify): This verb is frequently used with **sabbath**, as the people are commanded to **sanctify** the day and keep it holy [[Deuteronomy 5:12]]. God Himself is the one who ultimately sanctifies both the day and His people through it [[Exodus 31:13]].
* `{{H2320}}` **chôdesh** (new moon): The **sabbath** is consistently listed with other sacred appointed times, such as the **new moon** and solemn feasts, as part of Israel's calendar of worship ([[Ezekiel 45:17]], [[Hosea 2:11]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7676}}` is profound, defining key aspects of Israel's relationship with God.
* **Sign of the Covenant:** The **sabbaths** are explicitly given as a **sign** `{{H226}}` between God and the children of Israel throughout their generations, demonstrating that He is the LORD who sanctifies them ([[Exodus 31:13]], [[Ezekiel 20:12]], [[Ezekiel 20:20]]).
* **Memorial of Creation and Redemption:** The sabbath serves as a remembrance of God's work in creation, as He rested on the seventh day [[Exodus 20:11]]. It is also linked to Israel's deliverance from servitude in Egypt, providing a basis for rest for servants as well [[Deuteronomy 5:15]].
* **A Holy Convocation:** The seventh day is designated as a "holy **convocation**" `{{H4744}}`, a sacred assembly for the LORD [[Leviticus 23:3]]. Profaning this holy time through work or commerce was seen as a rejection of God's authority and resulted in judgment ([[Nehemiah 13:18]], [[Ezekiel 22:26]]).
* **A Day of Delight:** Proper observance of the sabbath involves turning from one's own ways and pleasure and calling the day a **delight** `{{H6027}}`, honoring the LORD [[Isaiah 58:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7676}}` is far more than a day of leisure. It is a cornerstone of biblical law and theology, representing a sacred **intermission** dedicated to God. It functions as a perpetual sign of the covenant, a memorial of God's acts in creation and redemption, and a command that calls for holiness, rest, and delight. The observance of the **sabbath** is a primary indicator of Israel's obedience and relationship with the LORD.
TRV