### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shûwr**, represented by `{{H7788}}`, is a primitive root with the core meaning **to turn** or **travel about**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses**, where it carries the sense of going about for a specific purpose, such as a merchant or a harlot would.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{H7788}}` present a sharp contrast in context. In Isaiah, it depicts a negative spiritual journey, where one "wentest{H7788} to the king{H4428} with ointment{H8081}" and perfumes, ultimately leading to self-debasement "even unto hell{H7585}" [[Isaiah 57:9]]. In Ezekiel, the word is used in the context of prosperous international trade, where "The ships{H591} of Tarshish{H8659} did sing{H7788} of thee in thy market{H4627}," contributing to a city being "replenished{H4390}, and made very{H3966} glorious{H3513}" [[Ezekiel 27:25]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its contexts help clarify its meaning:
* `{{H591}}` **ʼŏnîyâh** (a ship): This word identifies the vessel used for the commercial traveling described in Ezekiel's prophecy, directly linking `{{H7788}}` to maritime trade [[Ezekiel 27:25]].
* `{{H4627}}` **maʻărâb** (traffic; by implication, mercantile goods; market): This term establishes the setting for the travel in Ezekiel as one of commerce and merchandise, highlighting the "merchant" aspect of the definition of `{{H7788}}`.
* `{{H8213}}` **shâphêl** (to depress or sink... to humiliate): In contrast, this word reveals the outcome of the journey in Isaiah, where the traveling about is an act that will "abase" or bring one low [[Isaiah 57:9]].
* `{{H7585}}` **shᵉʼôwl** (Hades or the world of the dead... grave, hell, pit): This specifies the ultimate destination of the debased journey in Isaiah, showing that this type of "going about" leads to separation and the grave [[Isaiah 57:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7788}}` is demonstrated through its two contrasting applications, illustrating the significance of the direction and purpose of one's journey.
* **Journeys of Spiritual Unfaithfulness:** As seen in Isaiah, the act of "going about" can represent a departure from God to seek alliances with worldly powers. This travel, marked by idolatrous overtures, results in spiritual humiliation and degradation [[Isaiah 57:9]].
* **The Glory and Peril of Worldly Commerce:** In Ezekiel, the word is associated with the bustling activity that brings wealth and glory. The "ships of Tarshish" traveling in the market represent the height of human achievement and trade. However, this glory is centered "in the midst of the seas{H3220}," a symbol of worldly power that is ultimately fleeting [[Ezekiel 27:25]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7788}}` is a rare but potent verb for "traveling about." Its two biblical appearances powerfully contrast a journey of spiritual unfaithfulness that leads to debasement and death with a journey of worldly commerce that leads to great material glory. The word **shûwr** thereby serves as a reminder that the nature and destination of one's pursuits carry profound and divergent consequences.
TRV