### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shêd**, represented by `{{H7700}}`, is defined as a **daemon** (as malignant) or **devil**. It is a rare term, appearing only **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its usage points to demonic entities that were the recipients of forbidden worship.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical appearances, `{{H7700}}` is always associated with illicit sacrifice. [[Deuteronomy 32:17]] states that the people "sacrificed unto **devils**, not to God," clarifying that these entities were false "gods whom they knew not." This act is portrayed as a rejection of the true God. The severity of this transgression is amplified in [[Psalms 106:37]], which reports that the people "sacrificed their sons and their daughters unto **devils**," identifying these entities as the object of child sacrifice.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide crucial context for the meaning of `{{H7700}}`:
* `{{H2076}}` **zâbach** (to slaughter an animal (usually in sacrifice); kill, offer, (do) sacrifice, slay): This is the action directed toward the **devils** in both [[Deuteronomy 32:17]] and [[Psalms 106:37]]. The word itself can describe legitimate offerings to God [[Psalms 4:5]] or corrupt sacrifices [[Malachi 1:14]], highlighting that the object of the sacrifice is what determines its nature.
* `{{H430}}` **ʼĕlôhîym** (gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme God): This term is used in [[Deuteronomy 32:17]] to describe the **devils** `{{H7700}}` as "gods whom they knew not." This connects the concept of devils to false deities, which stand in contrast to the supreme God, also called `{{H430}}` [[Genesis 1:1]].
* `{{H433}}` **ʼĕlôwahh** (a deity or the Deity; God, god): In a direct contrast, [[Deuteronomy 32:17]] states that the people sacrificed to devils, "not to God" `{{H433}}`. This establishes `{{H7700}}` as being in direct opposition to the one true God, who is the proper recipient of worship [[Proverbs 30:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7700}}` is significant despite its infrequent use. It serves to define the nature of idolatry in stark terms.
* **Objects of Forbidden Worship:** The word identifies the spiritual beings behind idolatrous practices. Sacrifices offered to idols were not merely empty gestures but were directed toward these malignant entities in direct violation of the covenant with God [[Deuteronomy 32:17]].
* **Corruption of Sacrifice:** The act of sacrifice `{{H2076}}` was intended as a core part of worship to God. By directing this act toward **devils**, the people corrupted a sacred practice, culminating in the horrific sacrifice of their own children [[Psalms 106:37]].
* **Spiritual Antagonism:** The term establishes a clear spiritual dichotomy. The worship of **devils** `{{H7700}}` is presented as the antithesis of the worship of God `{{H433}}`, framing idolatry as an allegiance with hostile spiritual powers.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7700}}` **shêd** is a specific term for the demonic entities or false gods who were the focus of idolatrous worship. While appearing only twice, it is used in powerful contexts to condemn these practices as a profound betrayal of God, involving the corruption of sacrifice and allegiance to malignant powers. It reveals that, from a biblical perspective, idolatry was not a victimless crime but an engagement with "devils."
TRV