### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shachad**, represented by `{{H7810}}`, denotes a **donation**, a term that can mean a corrupt **bribe** or a legitimate **gift**, **present**, or **reward**. It appears 23 times across 21 unique verses. Its usage is overwhelmingly negative, often associated with the corruption of justice and leaders who act unrighteously.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7810}}` is most frequently used to condemn the act of bribery. Laws in the Torah explicitly forbid taking a **gift**, "for the gift doth blind the eyes of the wise, and pervert the words of the righteous" ([[Deuteronomy 16:19]]; [[Exodus 23:8]]). This principle is used to define God's own character, as He is a God who "regardeth not persons, nor taketh **reward**" [[Deuteronomy 10:17]]. In contrast, corrupt leaders are described as those who "judge for **reward**" [[Micah 3:11]] or, like Samuel's sons, who "took **bribes**, and perverted judgment" [[1 Samuel 8:3]]. In a few instances, the word is used more neutrally to mean a diplomatic **present**, such as the one King Ahaz sent to the king of Assyria [[2 Kings 16:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concepts of bribery and justice:
* `{{H4941}}` **mishpâṭ** (judgment): This refers to a verdict, justice, or right. It is the core principle that a **shachad** is condemned for corrupting. The law explicitly states one must not "wrest **judgment**" by taking a gift [[Deuteronomy 16:19]].
* `{{H5186}}` **nâṭâh** (to pervert): This root means to bend away or cause to deflect. It describes the direct effect of a bribe on justice, as seen when leaders who took bribes "perverted" judgment [[1 Samuel 8:3]].
* `{{H3947}}` **lâqach** (to take): This common verb, meaning to take or receive, is frequently paired with `{{H7810}}` in prohibitions against bribery, as in the command, "thou shalt **take** no gift" [[Exodus 23:8]].
* `{{H1215}}` **betsaʻ** (dishonest gain): This term for unjust gain or lucre often describes the motivation behind taking a bribe. Samuel's sons "turned aside after **lucre**, and took bribes" [[1 Samuel 8:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7810}}` is centered on the biblical understanding of justice and righteousness.
* **Corruption of Justice:** A **shachad** represents a fundamental attack on divinely ordained justice. It causes leaders to "justify the wicked for **reward**, and take away the righteousness of the righteous from him!" [[Isaiah 5:23]].
* **Divine Incorruptibility:** The concept is used to highlight God's perfect character. His refusal to take a **reward** establishes the ultimate standard for impartiality and righteousness that human judges are meant to reflect ([[Deuteronomy 10:17]]; [[2 Chronicles 19:7]]).
* **Sign of Wickedness:** Accepting bribes is a consistent mark of a wicked and rebellious heart. The hands of the corrupt are described as being "full of **bribes**" [[Psalms 26:10]], and the "tabernacles of **bribery**" are destined for destruction [[Job 15:34]]. In contrast, the righteous man is one who shakes his hands "from holding of **bribes**" [[Isaiah 33:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7810}}` is a potent term in scripture, primarily serving as a symbol for corruption. While it can occasionally refer to a neutral gift, its dominant meaning as a **bribe** underscores a core biblical theme: justice cannot be bought, and righteousness demands impartiality. The word provides a stark contrast between the incorruptible character of God and the tendency of humanity to pervert judgment for personal gain.
TRV