### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **sheger**, represented by `{{H7698}}`, refers to that which is expelled, such as a fetus or offspring. Its primary meaning in scripture is **increase**, specifically concerning livestock. Based on an unused root meaning to eject, it appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses**, consistently linking agricultural prosperity to God's covenant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H7698}}` is found almost exclusively in the context of covenantal blessings and curses. Four of its five appearances are in Deuteronomy, where the "increase of thy kine" is listed as a tangible sign of God's favor for obedience ([[Deuteronomy 7:13]], [[Deuteronomy 28:4]]). Conversely, the lack of this increase, or its consumption by enemies, is a direct consequence of disobedience and a curse upon the land ([[Deuteronomy 28:18]], [[Deuteronomy 28:51]]). The term is also used in Exodus to describe the offspring of an animal, specifying that "every firstling that cometh of a beast" must be set apart for the LORD `{{H3068}}` [[Exodus 13:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{H7698}}` within its agricultural and legal contexts:
* `{{H504}}` **'eleph** (kine, oxen): This word is directly paired with `{{H7698}}` in four verses, specifying that the "increase" refers to cattle [[Deuteronomy 7:13]]. It can also denote a family, highlighting the connection between the growth of a household and its livestock.
* `{{H6529}}` **pᵉrîy** (fruit): This term for fruit or reward is used in parallel with `{{H7698}}` to describe the full scope of blessing, which includes "the fruit of thy body" and "the fruit of thy ground" alongside the increase of animals [[Deuteronomy 28:4]].
* `{{H6363}}` **peṭer** (firstling, openeth): In Exodus, `{{H7698}}` is linked to `peṭer` to define which animals are consecrated to God: every firstling that "cometh of" `{{H7698}}` a beast is considered one that "openeth the matrix" [[Exodus 13:12]].
* `{{H929}}` **bᵉhêmâh** (beast, cattle): This general term for an animal or beast provides the broader category from which the `sheger` comes [[Exodus 13:12]]. It is a key element of the blessing and cursing formulas ([[Deuteronomy 28:4]], [[Deuteronomy 28:51]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H7698}}` is tied directly to the covenant between God and Israel.
* **Covenantal Consequences:** The increase of livestock serves as a physical barometer of Israel's faithfulness. Obedience leads to God blessing the `sheger` of the kine [[Deuteronomy 7:13]], while disobedience leads to a curse on it [[Deuteronomy 28:18]].
* **Divine Provision:** The word underscores God as the ultimate source of all abundance. He is the one who promises to love `{{H157}}`, bless `{{H1288}}`, and multiply `{{H7235}}` his people, including their flocks and herds [[Deuteronomy 7:13]].
* **Sanctity of the Firstborn:** By describing the firstling as that which "cometh of a beast" [[Exodus 13:12]], the law establishes that the very first increase belongs to the LORD `{{H3068}}`, reinforcing the principle of consecration and divine ownership.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7698}}` is a precise term that, while limited in use, carries significant weight. It translates the abstract concept of blessing into the tangible reality of livestock offspring. More than just agricultural gain, **sheger** represents a visible sign of the covenant relationship with God, illustrating his role as the source of all increase and the Lord to whom the first and best fruits belong.
TRV