or (feminine) שׁוֹאָה; or שֹׁאָה; from an unused root meaning to rush over; a tempest; by implication, devastation; desolate(-ion), destroy, destruction, storm, wasteness.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shôwʼ**, represented by `{{H7722}}`, describes a tempest, devastation, and utter ruin. Derived from a root meaning to rush over, it conveys a sense of sudden and overwhelming catastrophe. It appears **13 times** across **12 unique verses**, often depicting destruction, desolation, or a storm.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H7722}}` describes both a state of being and a sudden event. It can refer to a physical place, such as the "desolate{H7722} and waste" ground [[Job 38:27]], or a condition of being solitary due to want and famine [[Job 30:3]]. More frequently, it signifies an unexpected calamity, as in the "desolation{H7722} of the wicked" [[Proverbs 3:25]] or the "desolation{H7722}" that comes suddenly and without warning [[Isaiah 47:11]]. It is also used metaphorically to describe an overwhelming force, such as an invading army that comes "like a storm{H7722}" [[Ezekiel 38:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the scope of this devastating term:
* `{{H4875}}` **mᵉshôwʼâh** (desolation, waste): Often paired directly with `{{H7722}}`, this word reinforces the idea of complete and utter ruin. Together they paint a picture of a "day of wasteness{H7722} and desolation{H4875}" [[Zephaniah 1:15]].
* `{{H5492}}` **çûwphâh** (storm, tempest, whirlwind): This term connects to the natural force implied by `{{H7722}}`. It is used to describe how destruction comes "as a whirlwind" when fear comes as "desolation" [[Proverbs 1:27]].
* `{{H343}}` **ʼêyd** (calamity, destruction): This word appears alongside `{{H7722}}` to describe the arrival of ruin and anguish. It is when "your destruction{H343} cometh as a whirlwind" that distress follows [[Proverbs 1:27]].
* `{{H7563}}` **râshâʻ** (wicked): This term identifies the recipient of the judgment. Scripture warns not to fear the "desolation{H7722} of the wicked{H7563}" when it arrives [[Proverbs 3:25]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7722}}` is significant, highlighting themes of judgment and divine power.
* **Sudden Judgment:** The term frequently illustrates the suddenness of divine retribution. Babylon is warned that "desolation{H7722} shall come upon thee suddenly{H6597}" [[Isaiah 47:11]], emphasizing that judgment can arrive without warning.
* **The Day of Visitation:** `{{H7722}}` is a key descriptor for the eschatological Day of the Lord. Zephaniah describes this as a "day of wasteness{H7722} and desolation{H4875}," trouble, darkness, and wrath [[Zephaniah 1:15]]. It is a time of divine reckoning.
* **A Consequence of Wickedness:** The desolation is not random but is often presented as the outcome of sin. The psalmist prays for destruction to fall upon his enemy, trusting that they will fall into the very "destruction{H7722}" they intended for others [[Psalms 35:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7722}}` is a potent term for absolute ruin. It encompasses the destructive force of a storm, the emptiness of a desolate land, and the terror of a sudden catastrophe. Biblically, it serves as a powerful warning of the consequences that follow wickedness and a solemn depiction of the overwhelming power inherent in a divine "day of visitation."
TRV