a primitive root; to enlarge (especially upward, also figuratively); grow (up), increase.
Transliteration:sâgâh
Pronunciation:saw-gaw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root sâgâh (שָׂגָה, `{{H7685}}`) is a primitive verb carrying the fundamental meaning of "to enlarge," "to grow," or "to increase." The base definition specifically notes "especially upward," which imbues the concept of growth with a directional quality, suggesting elevation, ascent, or an upward trajectory. This vertical dimension can imply not merely quantitative increase but also qualitative improvement, prominence, or an elevated status. Figuratively, sâgâh extends to encompass concepts of prosperity, flourishing, success, and the accumulation of wealth or power. It describes a process of expansion and augmentation, whether in physical stature, material possessions, or societal standing. The inherent sense is one of positive development and thriving.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
While not among the most frequently occurring verbs in the Hebrew Bible, the appearances of sâgâh (שָׂגָה, `{{H7685}}`) are significant for their contextual implications of growth and prosperity. Its usage often highlights the source or nature of such increase. For instance, in [[Job 8:11]], the word is used in a rhetorical question concerning the growth of reeds without water, emphasizing the necessity of proper conditions for flourishing. This illustrates the physical aspect of "growing up." In [[Job 12:16]], the text speaks of those who "err" (a potential secondary meaning or related root, but here, in the context of the provided definition, it could imply those who *grow* in their error or power to deceive), though the primary sense of "increase" or "become great" more directly aligns with the sâgâh definition provided. The word can also describe the increase in wealth or power, as seen potentially in [[Proverbs 14:35]], where a wise servant causes his master to prosper or "increase." The contexts consistently point to an augmentation or betterment, often implying a divinely ordained or natural process of development. The "upward" aspect of the definition suggests a form of growth that is visible, evident, and perhaps even aspirational, moving towards greater heights or prominence.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of sâgâh (שָׂגָה, `{{H7685}}`) is rich with terms related to increase and flourishing. It shares conceptual overlap with verbs such as râbâh (רָבָה, `{{H7235}}`), meaning "to become great, to multiply, to increase," often used for population growth or quantitative increase. Similarly, tsâmach (צָמַח, `{{H6789}}`) denotes "to sprout, to grow," typically referring to botanical growth but also used metaphorically for the emergence of new things. The concept of "prosperity" is often conveyed by shâlôm (שָׁלוֹם, `{{H7965}}`) in its broader sense of well-being and completeness, or tsâlêach (צָלֵחַ, `{{H6743}}`) meaning "to prosper, to succeed." Sâgâh specifically adds the nuance of "upward" growth, implying elevation and development towards a higher state. Antonymically, it stands in contrast to concepts of decline, diminution, decay, or failure.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of sâgâh (שָׂגָה, `{{H7685}}`) lies primarily in its connection to divine blessing and the source of true flourishing. When the Scriptures speak of things sâgâh-ing, it often points to God as the ultimate enabler of growth and prosperity. Just as a tree planted by streams of water "grows" and yields fruit (cf. [[Psalm 1:3]]), so too does the righteous person or the nation aligned with God's will experience increase and elevation. This growth is not merely material but can also imply spiritual or moral advancement, an "upward" trajectory in one's walk with God. The concept challenges human self-sufficiency, suggesting that genuine and sustained increase ultimately derives from divine favor and provision. It underscores the biblical principle that prosperity and well-being are often the result of covenant faithfulness, though not exclusively so, as God's common grace extends to all creation. The "upward" aspect can also subtly hint at a movement towards God, the ultimate high point.
### Summary
The Hebrew root sâgâh (שָׂגָה, `{{H7685}}`) profoundly conveys the idea of growth, increase, and enlargement, with a notable emphasis on an "upward" trajectory. This vertical dimension suggests not only quantitative expansion but also elevation, prominence, and flourishing. Contexts of its usage in the Bible consistently point to processes of development, prosperity, and success, whether in natural phenomena, material wealth, or societal standing. Semantically related to terms like râbâh (`{{H7235}}`) and tsâmach (`{{H6789}}`), sâgâh contributes a unique nuance of ascending growth. Theologically, it highlights God as the sovereign source of all true increase and blessing, implying that genuine prosperity and elevated status are often the result of divine favor and alignment with His purposes. It speaks to the comprehensive well-being and flourishing that can be experienced under God's hand.
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