### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shôwaʻ**, represented by `{{H7771}}`, carries a dual meaning related to both social standing and audible expression. Derived from a root sense of freedom, its definitions include a noble, liberal, or opulent person, as well as a halloo or cry. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, with translations including **rich**, **bountiful**, and **crying**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical applications, `{{H7771}}` is used in distinct contexts that highlight its versatile meaning. In the book of Job, it refers to the **rich** whom God does not favor over the poor, establishing a theme of divine impartiality [[Job 34:19]]. In Isaiah, it takes on a different sense, describing the **crying** to the mountains during a day of divine judgment characterized by trouble and perplexity [[Isaiah 22:5]]. The term is also used in a prophetic declaration that a churlish person will no longer be considered **bountiful**, signifying a future where true character is rightly discerned [[Isaiah 32:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{H7771}}` appears:
* `{{H1800}}` **dal**: Meaning weak, needy, or **poor**, this word is used in direct contrast to `{{H7771}}` to emphasize that God does not regard the rich more than the **poor** [[Job 34:19]].
* `{{H4103}}` **mᵉhûwmâh**: This word for **trouble**, confusion, or tumult is used alongside `{{H7771}}` to describe the atmosphere of judgment from the Lord [[Isaiah 22:5]].
* `{{H8269}}` **sar**: As a term for a **prince** or head person, it appears alongside `{{H7771}}` to show that God is impartial to social hierarchies, accepting neither **princes** nor the rich based on their status [[Job 34:19]].
* `{{H4001}}` **mᵉbûwçâh**: Meaning a **treading down**, this term is linked with the "crying" of `{{H7771}}` in Isaiah's prophecy, painting a picture of devastation and distress [[Isaiah 22:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7771}}` is demonstrated in its varied uses across scripture.
* **Divine Impartiality:** The word is central to the principle that God's justice is not influenced by wealth or status. He does not regard the **rich** `{{H7771}}` over the poor `{{H1800}}`, as all are the work of His hands [[Job 34:19]].
* **A Cry of Judgment:** In a prophetic context, `{{H7771}}` is not a cry for help but a cry of anguish in response to God's judgment. It is part of a day of **trouble** `{{H4103}}` and **perplexity** `{{H3998}}` sent by the Lord [[Isaiah 22:5]].
* **Moral and Social Rectitude:** The term is used to distinguish true character from mere appearance. In a restored kingdom, a deceitful person will no longer be deceptively called **bountiful** `{{H7771}}`, reflecting a time of moral clarity [[Isaiah 32:5]].
### Summary
In summary, while **shôwaʻ** `{{H7771}}` is used infrequently, it powerfully conveys concepts of both high social status and desperate cries. It serves as a key term in discussions of God's impartiality toward the **rich** and powerful, as an expression of distress during divine judgment, and as a descriptor of generosity in prophecies concerning future righteousness. Its dual meaning illustrates how a single term can be applied to vastly different human conditions, from opulence to anguish.
TRV