### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shᵉgâgâh**, represented by `{{H7684}}`, defines **a mistake or inadvertent transgression**. Derived from the root שָׁגַג (shâgag), it appears **19 times** across **18 unique verses** in the Bible. The word specifically denotes an act committed in **error**, through **ignorance**, or **at unawares; unwittingly**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical law, `{{H7684}}` is central to the system of atonement for unintentional sins. The book of Leviticus repeatedly addresses what happens if a soul sins **through ignorance** (`shᵉgâgâh`) against God's commandments [[Leviticus 4:2]]. This applies to any person, from a ruler who sins and becomes guilty [[Leviticus 4:22]] to one of the common people [[Leviticus 4:27]]. The concept also extends to unintentional killings, where cities of refuge were established for a slayer who kills someone **at unawares** ([[Numbers 35:11]], [[Joshua 20:3]]). In Ecclesiastes, the word is used more broadly to mean an **error**, such as one that proceeds from a ruler [[Ecclesiastes 10:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and application of an inadvertent transgression:
* `{{H7683}}` **shâgag** (to err, go astray): This is the primitive root from which `shᵉgâgâh` is derived. It describes the action of straying or sinning ignorantly, and the two words are used together to emphasize the unknowing nature of the transgression [[Leviticus 5:18]].
* `{{H2398}}` **châṭâʼ** (to sin): This general term for sin is often qualified by `shᵉgâgâh` to specify the nature of the offense, as when a soul shall **sin** through **ignorance** [[Leviticus 4:2]].
* `{{H3722}}` **kâphar** (to make an atonement): This describes the prescribed remedy for an act of `shᵉgâgâh`. A priest would **make an atonement** for the person who erred, and they would be forgiven [[Numbers 15:28]].
* `{{H4733}}` **miqlâṭ** (refuge): This term is legally connected to `shᵉgâgâh`. The cities of **refuge** were appointed as a place for a person to flee if they killed someone **unawares** [[Numbers 35:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7684}}` is significant, highlighting God's justice and mercy.
* **Atonement for Unintentional Sin:** The concept establishes that even sins committed unknowingly defile and require atonement. The Law provides specific sacrifices for a trespass committed **through ignorance**, ensuring forgiveness could be granted once the error was known ([[Leviticus 5:15]], [[Leviticus 5:18]]).
* **Divine Forgiveness:** The system for addressing sins of **ignorance** underscores God's mercy. Forgiveness (`sâlach` `{{H5545}}`) is explicitly promised for these acts, whether committed by an individual or the whole congregation, after the proper atonement is made ([[Numbers 15:25]], [[Numbers 15:28]]).
* **Justice and Refuge:** In law, the term is crucial for distinguishing unintentional manslaughter from premeditated murder. This allows for justice to be tempered with mercy, providing a safe haven in a city of **refuge** for one who killed **unawares** until their case could be heard [[Joshua 20:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7684}}` is more than a simple mistake; it is a specific legal and theological category for an unwitting transgression. It is foundational to the Levitical laws governing sin offerings and provides the basis for distinguishing between intentional and unintentional offenses. The concept of `shᵉgâgâh` demonstrates a divine system that acknowledges human fallibility while providing a clear, merciful path toward atonement and reconciliation with God.
TRV