; a primitive root; to grow, i.e. (causatively) to enlarge, (figuratively) laud; increase, magnify.
Transliteration:sâgâʼ
Pronunciation:saw-gaw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew verb שָׂגָא (sâgâʼ), Strong's number `{{H7679}}`, is a primitive root carrying the fundamental meaning "to grow." Its semantic range extends to encompass several related concepts, often with a causative or figurative nuance. Primarily, it denotes an increase in size, quantity, or prosperity, thus translating as "to enlarge" or "to increase." Beyond this literal growth, the word also takes on a significant figurative sense, specifically "to laud" or "to magnify." This duality reflects both an objective state of being *greater* and a subjective act of *proclaiming greatness*. As a primitive root, its core meaning is foundational, pointing to the concept of expansion and augmentation, whether in material terms or in the realm of honor and praise.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Occurrences of שָׂגָא (sâgâʼ) in the Hebrew Bible, though not numerous, are potent and illustrative of its semantic breadth.
One notable instance is found in [[Job 8:7]], where Bildad, in his counsel to Job, states: "Though your beginning was small, yet your latter end would greatly increase (שָׂגָא)." Here, the verb clearly refers to the material prosperity and numerical growth that is expected to accompany the righteous. It speaks of an expansion of possessions, influence, or family, indicating divine blessing and restoration. The context emphasizes the potential for exponential growth from humble beginnings.
Another significant usage appears in [[Job 36:24]], where Elihu exhorts Job: "Remember that you magnify (שָׂגָא) His work, of which men have sung." In this context, שָׂגָא (sâgâʼ) shifts from describing an objective increase to a subjective act of praise and acknowledgement. It is not that humanity can make God's work *greater* in an absolute sense, but rather that we are called to *proclaim* its greatness, to extol its magnificence, and to recognize its unparalleled nature. This usage highlights the human responsibility to worship and glorify God by acknowledging the grandeur of His creative and providential acts.
These two primary contexts demonstrate the word's capacity to describe both tangible growth and the spiritual act of exalting the divine.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of "increase" or "growth" inherent in שָׂגָא (sâgâʼ) connects it to several other Hebrew terms. Foremost among these is `{{H7235}}` (rabah), meaning "to be many, to multiply, to increase," which is a more common and general term for numerical or quantitative increase (e.g., [[Genesis 1:28]]). While rabah often focuses on multiplication, שָׂגָא (sâgâʼ) can imply a more qualitative or expansive growth. Another related term for abundance is `{{H7227}}` (rav), meaning "multitude" or "abundance."
In its sense of "magnifying" or "lauding," שָׂגָא (sâgâʼ) aligns with verbs of praise and worship, such as `{{H1984}}` (halal), "to praise, to boast," and `{{H1288}}` (barak), "to bless, to praise." However, שָׂגָא (sâgâʼ) carries a specific nuance of acknowledging something's *inherent greatness* and making that greatness known, rather than merely expressing joy or gratitude. It implies an elevation of status or perception. The concept of divine sovereignty and blessing is also intrinsically linked, as God is the ultimate source of all true increase and the worthy object of all magnification.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of שָׂגָא (sâgâʼ) lies in its dual application to divine blessing and human response. In its sense of "increase," it points to God as the benevolent provider who grants prosperity and growth, often as a sign of covenant faithfulness or righteous living ([[Job 8:7]]). This aspect underscores God's providential care and His ability to bring about flourishing in the lives of His people. It is a reminder that all genuine increase, whether material or spiritual, ultimately emanates from Him.
In its sense of "magnify" or "laud," שָׂגָא (sâgâʼ) calls humanity to a posture of worship and recognition of God's unparalleled greatness ([[Job 36:24]]). We cannot make God *more* great, for His greatness is infinite and immutable. Rather, we are commanded to *declare* His greatness, to *proclaim* His magnificent works, and to *elevate* Him in our hearts and minds above all else. This act of magnification is not for God's benefit, but for ours, as it correctly aligns our perspective with divine reality and fosters a spirit of humility and adoration. The word thus bridges the gap between God's active work in the world (causing increase) and humanity's proper response to that work (magnifying Him).
### Summary
The Hebrew verb שָׂגָא (sâgâʼ), `{{H7679}}`, is a powerful primitive root signifying both "to grow" or "to increase" and "to magnify" or "to laud." Its occurrences in the book of Job beautifully illustrate this dual meaning: it describes the tangible increase and prosperity granted by God as a blessing ([[Job 8:7]]), and it mandates the spiritual act of acknowledging and proclaiming the inherent greatness of God's works ([[Job 36:24]]). The word thus encapsulates a profound theological truth: God is the source of all flourishing and augmentation, and humanity's fitting response is to recognize, extol, and elevate His matchless glory. It serves as a reminder of divine providence and the call to worship.
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