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.
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.
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.
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.
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