### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shevaʻ**, represented by `{{H7773}}`, is defined as **a halloo; cry**. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its meaning is derived from the root word for crying out, and it signifies an urgent, impassioned appeal.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H7773}}` is in [[Psalms 5:2]], where the psalmist pleads, "Hearken unto the voice of my **cry**, my King, and my God: for unto thee will I pray." In this context, the **cry** is not a vague utterance but a direct and personal appeal addressed to God in his dual capacity as sovereign King `{{H4428}}` and personal God `{{H430}}`. The word captures a moment of intense supplication, forming the basis of a prayer.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words found in this verse help clarify the nature of this cry:
* `{{H7181}}` **qâshab** (to hearken): This verb, meaning "to prick up the ears, i.e. hearken," is the response sought by the one issuing the cry. The psalmist asks God to **hearken** to him [[Psalms 5:2]], just as the LORD **hearkened** to those who feared Him [[Malachi 3:16]].
* `{{H6963}}` **qôwl** (a voice or sound): This word for **voice** or sound is paired with `{{H7773}}` to form the phrase "the **voice** of my cry," emphasizing the audible and specific nature of the plea [[Psalms 5:2]]. Heeding God's **voice** is presented as a paramount duty, even more important than sacrifice [[1 Samuel 15:22]].
* `{{H6419}}` **pâlal** (to pray): This term means "to intercede, pray," and it frames the cry as an act of worship. The appeal is the substance of the psalmist's communication with God, as he states, "unto thee will I **pray**" [[Psalms 5:2]]. It is a foundational act of faith, seen when Daniel **prayed** to his God [[Daniel 9:4]].
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (a king): The cry is directed to God as "my **King**" [[Psalms 5:2]], acknowledging His supreme authority and power to act. This recognizes the LORD's ultimate sovereignty as **king** over all the earth [[Zechariah 14:9]].
### Theological Significance
Despite its single usage, the theological significance of `{{H7773}}` is focused and clear.
* **Direct Appeal to Divine Authority:** The cry is directed to "my King, and my God" [[Psalms 5:2]], illustrating a model of prayer that approaches God based on His sovereign power and personal relationship with the worshipper.
* **The Nature of Supplication:** **Shevaʻ** represents a form of prayer that is urgent and vocal. It is a "halloo," an earnest call for attention and help from the one being who can truly provide it.
* **Confidence in Being Heard:** The act of crying out is rooted in the faith that God will **hearken** `{{H7181}}`. The entire plea is constructed around the expectation of a divine response to the supplicant's voice.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7773}}` **shevaʻ** offers a concise yet powerful glimpse into the nature of desperate prayer. Though found only once, its placement in [[Psalms 5:2]] defines it as an urgent, vocal **cry** directed to God in His role as both King and personal deity. It stands as a testament to the raw and honest communication that forms a vital part of the biblical understanding of prayer.
TRV