a primitive root; to peep, i.e. glance sharply at; look (narrowly).
Transliteration:shâgach
Pronunciation:shaw-gakh'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root שָׁגַח (shâgach), Strong's `{{H7688}}`, is a primitive root denoting a specific mode of observation. Its core meaning centers on the act of looking, but with an added nuance of intensity and focus. The definition "to peep, i.e. glance sharply at; look (narrowly)" suggests a deliberate, often scrutinizing, gaze rather than a casual glance. This implies an active engagement of the eyes, perhaps to discern details, observe discreetly, or look through an opening. The term "peep" further evokes the idea of looking from a concealed or partially obscured position, implying a careful and intentional act of observation. The sharpness of the glance suggests a penetrating and discerning look.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The root שָׁגַח (shâgach) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, which makes its single occurrence particularly significant for understanding its specific semantic contribution.
* **[[Song of Solomon 2:9]]**: "My beloved is like a gazelle or a young stag. Behold, he stands behind our wall, he looks in through the windows, he peers through the lattice."
In this verse, שָׁגַח appears in the Hiphil participle form, *mashgiach* (מַשְׁגִּיחַ), translated as "looks in" or "peers through." The Hiphil stem typically indicates a causative or active sense, emphasizing the beloved's deliberate and active engagement in observing the speaker. The imagery depicts the beloved observing from a distance, through architectural openings like windows and lattices. This context highlights an intimate, perhaps longing or anticipatory, gaze. The act of "peering through the lattice" perfectly captures the "peep" or "look narrowly" aspect of שָׁגַח, suggesting a focused, perhaps even shy or tender, observation that seeks to connect despite a physical barrier. The singular use in such a romantic and intimate context underscores its unique nuance among verbs of seeing.
### Related Words & Concepts
The Hebrew Bible employs a rich vocabulary for various forms of sight and observation. שָׁגַח (shâgach) stands distinct from more common verbs:
* **`{{H7200}}` (ra'ah)**: The most ubiquitous verb for "to see," encompassing general sight, perception, understanding, and experiencing. It is broad in its application.
* **`{{H5027}}` (nabaṭ)**: To look, gaze, or behold, often implying a deliberate turning of one's eyes towards something, sometimes with attention or contemplation.
* **`{{H7789}}` (shûr)**: To behold, observe, or look out, often suggesting a surveying or watching from a vantage point, possibly with an element of guarding.
* **`{{H6697}}` (tsâphâh)**: To look out, spy, or keep watch, frequently used in the context of a watchman, implying anticipation or guarding.
While these words all relate to the act of seeing, שָׁגַח (shâgach) distinguishes itself by its specific emphasis on a *narrow*, *sharp*, or *peeping* glance. Its singular occurrence in an intimate, romantic context, coupled with the imagery of looking through an opening, sets it apart, conveying a more focused, perhaps discreet, and deeply personal form of observation than its broader semantic cousins.
### Theological Significance
Given its unique appearance in [[Song of Solomon 2:9]], the theological significance of שָׁגַח (shâgach) is primarily derived from the rich interpretations of the Song of Solomon itself. While celebrating human love, the Song is widely understood allegorically to depict God's profound love for Israel and, by extension, Christ's love for the Church or the individual soul.
In this allegorical framework, the "peering" or "looking in" of the beloved (representing God or Christ) through the "windows" or "lattice" takes on deep theological meaning. It portrays a divine lover who is not distant or indifferent but actively, tenderly, and persistently seeking communion with the beloved. This act of "peeping" suggests:
* **Divine Watchfulness and Care**: God's gaze is not a casual one; it is a focused, attentive, and discerning look that penetrates even perceived barriers (the wall, windows, lattice). It speaks to God's intimate knowledge and care for His people.
* **Persistent Pursuit**: Even when there might be separation or a sense of hiddenness, God's love actively seeks out the beloved. The image conveys a longing for connection and a desire to draw near.
* **Intimacy and Personal Interest**: The "narrow look" implies a deep, personal interest in the beloved, seeing beyond the surface and desiring an intimate relationship. It underscores God's active presence and His personal engagement with His creation and, specifically, with those He loves.
Thus, שָׁגַח underscores a God who is passionately involved, observing His people with deep affection and a constant desire for communion, even when they may feel separated or unseen.
### Summary
The Hebrew root שָׁגַח (shâgach), Strong's `{{H7688}}`, denotes a focused and intense act of looking, specifically "to peep, to glance sharply at, or to look narrowly." Its singular appearance in the biblical text in [[Song of Solomon 2:9]] is pivotal. In this verse, it describes the beloved's action of "looking in through the windows" and "peering through the lattice," conveying a highly intentional, intimate, and perhaps longing observation. This specific usage distinguishes שָׁגַח from other verbs of seeing, emphasizing a discreet yet penetrating gaze that seeks to connect. Theologically, within the allegorical readings of the Song of Solomon, שָׁגַח powerfully illustrates God's tender, persistent, and discerning watchfulness over His people, signifying His active desire for intimate communion and His penetrating love that seeks out the beloved even through perceived barriers.
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