### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shôwphâr**, represented by `{{H7782}}`, is a term for a **cornet** or curved **horn**, often translated as **trumpet**. It appears **72 times** across **63 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from a root meaning to incise, it refers to a horn that gives a clear and distinct sound, signifying its important role in communication, ceremony, and warfare.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, the **shôwphâr** is used in several key contexts. It serves as a critical instrument for military alarm and mobilization, as when Joel commands, "Blow{H8628} ye the trumpet{H7782} in Zion, and sound an alarm{H7321}" [[Joel 2:1]]. Its sound accompanies moments of divine revelation, such as at Mount Sinai where "the voice{H6963} of the trumpet{H7782} exceeding{H3966} loud" caused the people to tremble [[Exodus 19:16]]. The **shôwphâr** is also central to religious ceremony and royal proclamation, used in the siege of Jericho [[Joshua 6:4]], the anointing of King Solomon [[1 Kings 1:34]], and the announcement of the year of Jubile [[Leviticus 25:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the actions and sounds associated with the **shôwphâr**:
* `{{H8628}}` **tâqaʻ** (blow): This primitive root is the primary verb for sounding a **shôwphâr**. It means "to clatter, i.e. slap (the hands together), clang (an instrument)," and is used to command the blowing of the trumpet to gather people or sound an alarm [[Joel 2:1]].
* `{{H7321}}` **rûwaʻ** (shout, sound an alarm): This root describes splitting the ears with sound, either as a shout of joy or an alarm for battle. It is often used in conjunction with the trumpet blast, indicating a vocal cry accompanying the instrument's sound [[Joshua 6:5]].
* `{{H8643}}` **tᵉrûwʻâh** (clamor, shout, alarm): This noun is derived from `{{H7321}}` and signifies an acclamation of joy or a battle-cry. It can describe the "alarm{H8643} of war{H4421}" heard with the **shôwphâr** [[Jeremiah 4:19]] or the joyful sound of worship [[Psalms 47:5]].
* `{{H2689}}` **chătsôtsᵉrâh** (trumpet): This word also means **trumpet**, but refers to a different kind, noted for its "sundered or quavering note." It is sometimes mentioned alongside the **shôwphâr**, suggesting a distinction between the two instruments [[Psalms 98:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7782}}` is significant, symbolizing divine communication and intervention.
* **A Call to Attention and Warning:** The blast of a **shôwphâr** serves as a divine warning that demands a response. A watchman who fails to blow the trumpet is held responsible for the people who are not warned [[Ezekiel 33:6]], and a prophet's voice is to be lifted "like a trumpet" to declare transgressions [[Isaiah 58:1]].
* **The Voice of God's Presence:** The sound of the **shôwphâr** is directly linked to the awesome presence of God. It was heard at Sinai during the giving of the law [[Exodus 19:16]], and the LORD God Himself is depicted as one who will "blow{H8628} the trumpet{H7782}" when He appears to save His people [[Zechariah 9:14]].
* **An Instrument of Proclamation and Redemption:** The **shôwphâr** announces God's royal authority and redemptive acts. It sounds when God "is gone up{H5927}{H8804)} with a shout{H8643}" [[Psalms 47:5]] and proclaims the liberty of the Jubile [[Leviticus 25:9]]. Ultimately, a "great{H1419} trumpet{H7782}" will be blown to gather the outcasts and perishing to worship the LORD [[Isaiah 27:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7782}}` is far more than a simple horn. It is a cornerstone of biblical imagery, used to signal war, announce kings, and mark solemn religious occasions. Its piercing sound cuts through the noise of daily life to command attention, declare divine judgment, herald the very presence of God, and proclaim His ultimate plan of redemption for His people.
TRV