### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Shûwchîy**, represented by `{{H7747}}`, is a patronymic meaning a **Shuchite or descendant of Shuach; Shuhite**. It is a very specific term, appearing only **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. Its sole function is to denote the origin of one of Job's friends.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7747}}` is used exclusively to identify **Bildad the Shuhite**, one of the three friends who came to visit Job. These men heard of the evil that had come upon Job and "made an appointment together to come to mourn with him and to comfort him" [[Job 2:11]]. The term is consistently used to introduce Bildad's speeches in his dialogue with Job ([[Job 8:1]], [[Job 18:1]], [[Job 25:1]]). The final mention of the **Shuhite** occurs when Bildad and his friends obey the LORD's command at the end of the book [[Job 42:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The word **Shuhite** is always used in the context of Job's other friends, whose origins are similarly described:
* `{{H1085}}` **Bildad** (of uncertain derivation; Bildad, one of Job's friends; Bildad): This is the only individual identified as a **Shuhite** `{{H7747}}` in the Bible [[Job 18:1]].
* `{{H464}}` **ʼĔlîyphaz** (God of gold; Eliphaz, the name of one of Job's friends, and of a son of Esau; Eliphaz): The first of the three friends mentioned, he appears alongside Bildad the **Shuhite** [[Job 2:11]].
* `{{H8489}}` **Têymânîy** (a Temanite or descendant of Teman): This is the descriptive term for Eliphaz, used in parallel with **Shuhite** for Bildad [[Job 2:11]].
* `{{H6691}}` **Tsôwphar** (departing; Tsophar, a friend of Job): The third friend who joined Bildad the **Shuhite** and Eliphaz the Temanite [[Job 2:11]].
* `{{H5284}}` **Naʻămâthîy** (a Naamathite, or inhabitant of Naamah): This term identifies the origin of Zophar, completing the trio of friends [[Job 2:11]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative significance of `{{H7747}}` is tied directly to its use in the book of Job.
* **Narrative Framing:** The title "Bildad the **Shuhite**" acts as a recurring structural marker, introducing his specific sections of dialogue within the larger debate ([[Job 8:1]], [[Job 18:1]], [[Job 25:1]]).
* **Collective Identity:** **Shuhite** is never used in isolation but always in the context of Job's three friends. It helps establish the identity of the group that comes to confront Job's suffering.
* **Character Identification:** The term provides a specific origin or lineage for Bildad, distinguishing him from Eliphaz the Temanite and Zophar the Naamathite, and grounding these characters in a particular geographic or tribal context [[Job 2:11]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7747}}` is a highly specific identifier used exclusively for Bildad, one of Job's three friends. Its presence is confined entirely to the book of Job, where it serves to introduce Bildad's speeches and define his place within the group of friends. The term **Shuhite** underscores the importance of lineage and regional identity in the biblical world, providing a distinct background for one of the key figures in Job's narrative of suffering, debate, and eventual restoration.
TRV