### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shabbâthôwn**, represented by `{{H7677}}`, signifies a **sabbatism** or **special holiday**. Derived from the word for sabbath, it denotes a profound period of rest. It appears 11 times across 10 unique verses, highlighting its role in defining specific, set-apart times of complete cessation from labor.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical law, `{{H7677}}` is used to intensify the meaning of rest. It is frequently paired with the standard word for sabbath `{{H7676}}` to form the phrase "sabbath of **rest**," which applies to the seventh day of the week ([[Exodus 31:15]], [[Leviticus 23:3]]). The term also designates special appointed times, such as the Feast of Trumpets, which is called a **sabbath** `{{H7677}}` and a holy convocation [[Leviticus 23:24]]. This concept of profound rest extends beyond a single day to an entire year, with the seventh year described as a "sabbath of **rest** unto the land" [[Leviticus 25:4]] and a "year of **rest**" [[Leviticus 25:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the concept of `{{H7677}}`:
* `{{H7676}}` **shabbâth** (sabbath): As the root of `shabbâthôwn`, this word for an "intermission" is foundational. The two are often used together to emphasize the solemnity of the rest [[Leviticus 16:31]].
* `{{H7673}}` **shâbath** (to repose): This is the primitive root verb meaning to "desist from exertion." It is the action commanded for the Day of Atonement, when Israel was to "celebrate" their sabbath [[Leviticus 23:32]].
* `{{H4399}}` **mᵉlâʼkâh** (work): This term for "employment" or "work" is what must cease during a `shabbâthôwn`. On a "sabbath of rest," no **work** is to be done [[Leviticus 23:3]].
* `{{H4744}}` **miqrâʼ** (convocation): Many `shabbâthôwn` periods are also designated as a "holy **convocation**," a sacred public meeting, indicating that the rest was for the purpose of community gathering before the Lord [[Leviticus 23:24]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7677}}` is centered on the principle of sacred time and complete dependence on God.
* **Intensified Holiness:** The use of `{{H7677}}` elevates a day or year beyond ordinary cessation, marking it as a period of special, solemn rest dedicated to the LORD, as seen with the Day of Atonement [[Leviticus 16:31]].
* **Cyclical Sanctity:** The term is applied to weekly, annual, and septennial cycles. This establishes a rhythm of life where rest is a recurring, foundational ordinance, not an occasional event.
* **Rest for Creation:** The application of `{{H7677}}` to the land itself in the seventh year reveals a divine principle of rest that extends to all of creation. The land was not to be sown `{{H2232}}` or pruned `{{H2168}}`, reflecting a trust in God's provision [[Leviticus 25:4]].
* **Spiritual Refreshment:** On days of `shabbâthôwn`, Israel was commanded to **afflict** `{{H6031}}` their **souls** `{{H5315}}`, connecting physical rest with spiritual humility and renewal [[Leviticus 23:32]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7677}}` is not merely a synonym for sabbath but an intensive term signifying a complete and holy rest. It structures the life of Israel around divinely appointed times for ceasing from work, gathering for worship, and acknowledging God's sovereignty over their time, their labor, and even the land itself. This special rest was a cornerstone of the covenant relationship.
TRV