The Hebrew word shiggâʻôwn, represented by H7697, describes a state of craziness or an action performed furiously. Its base definition is madness. It is a rare term, appearing only 3 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible, but it carries significant weight in its contexts.
In the biblical narrative, H7697 is used to illustrate both divine judgment and intense human action. As a curse for disobedience, the LORD warns He will "smite thee with madness" Deuteronomy 28:28. This theme of divine action is repeated in Zechariah's prophecy, where God declares He will "smite every horse with astonishment, and his rider with madness" Zechariah 12:4. In a different context, the term describes the distinctive driving of Jehu, which a watchman identifies because "he driveth furiously" 2 Kings 9:20.
Several related words appear alongside H7697, creating a fuller picture of disarray and judgment:
- H5788 ʻivvârôwn (blindness; blind(-ness).): This word for blindness is paired with madness in both Deuteronomy 28:28 and Zechariah 12:4, forming part of a triad of afflictions sent by the LORD.
- H8541 timmâhôwn (consternation; astonishment.): This term, signifying profound confusion, also appears with madness and blindness in the curses listed in Deuteronomy 28:28 and Zechariah 12:4.
The theological weight of H7697 is focused on its role as an instrument of divine power and a descriptor of human behavior.
- A Tool of Judgment: The word is primarily used to describe a specific punishment inflicted by God. This madness is not a random affliction but a direct consequence delivered by the LORD against Israel for disobedience Deuteronomy 28:28 or against the enemies of Judah Zechariah 12:4.
- Intense Action: The description of Jehu's driving as furiously 2 Kings 9:20 connects the concept of "craziness" to a visible, wild, and energetic display, showing how an internal state can manifest externally.
- Mental Disorientation: When used with blindness H5788 and astonishment H8541, it points to a complete breakdown of perception and reason, a state of utter confusion imposed as divine judgment.
In summary, H7697 is a specific and powerful word used to convey two related ideas: the state of madness and the action of behaving furiously. Though used sparingly, it serves as a stark illustration of divine judgment, where God can afflict the mind as a form of punishment, and as a vivid descriptor for extreme human behavior.
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