### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shûwbâh**, represented by `{{H7729}}`, means **a return** or **returning**. It is a highly specific term, appearing just **1 time** in a single verse in the entire Bible. Its significance is derived from its unique and powerful context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H7729}}` is in [[Isaiah 30:15]], where it forms a key part of a divine declaration from "the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel". In this verse, the act of **returning** is directly linked with rest as the means by which the people of Israel would be saved. This path to salvation and strength, however, was rejected by the people, as the verse concludes, "and ye would not" [[Isaiah 30:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its only context clarify the meaning of `{{H7729}}`:
* `{{H5183}}` **Nachath** (restfulness): This word is used in direct parallel with **returning** in [[Isaiah 30:15]], indicating that turning back to God is intrinsically linked to finding rest.
* `{{H3467}}` **yâshaʻ** (to be safe, save): This is the promised outcome of **returning** and rest. It defines the deliverance offered by God [[Isaiah 30:15]].
* `{{H8252}}` **shâqaṭ** (quietness, to be still): This term expands on the state of being that accompanies returning to God, where quietness and confidence become the source of strength [[Isaiah 30:15]].
* `{{H14}}` **ʼâbâh** (be willing): This word highlights the human response to God's offer. The Lord provides a path of returning for salvation, but the people would not consent [[Isaiah 30:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7729}}` is concentrated in its single appearance.
* **The Divine Path to Salvation:** The use of `{{H7729}}` in [[Isaiah 30:15]] establishes a clear theological principle: salvation (`yâshaʻ`, `{{H3467}}`) is found in the act of **returning** to God and finding **rest** (`Nachath`, `{{H5183}}`) in Him.
* **The Source of True Strength:** The verse contrasts worldly strength with spiritual fortitude. True **strength** (`gᵉbûwrâh`, `{{H1369}}`) is not gained through frantic activity but through **quietness** (`shâqaṭ`, `{{H8252}}`) and **confidence** (`biṭchâh`, `{{H985}}`) in God.
* **Invitation and Refusal:** The statement is issued by "the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel," framing it as a sacred and authoritative call [[Isaiah 30:15]]. The verse concludes with the people's rejection of this path ("ye would not," `{{H14}}`), underscoring a theme of human unwillingness in the face of divine grace.
### Summary
In summary, though it appears only once, **shûwbâh** `{{H7729}}` carries immense theological weight. Its singular context in [[Isaiah 30:15]] encapsulates a core biblical message: the act of **returning** to the Lord is the designated path to receiving His salvation, rest, and true strength. It stands as a powerful, concise statement on the nature of repentance and trust in God.
TRV