### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Shᵉyâʼ**, represented by `{{H7864}}`, is the name of an Israelite, Sheja. It is noted as a marginal reading for `{{H7724}}` Sheva. This name is exceedingly rare in scripture, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H7864}}` is in [[2 Samuel 20:25]], where it identifies an individual holding a specific office. The verse states, "And Sheva was scribe". This places **Shᵉyâʼ**, as Sheva, in an official administrative role within Israel's leadership structure. The context of the verse also mentions other significant figures, noting that "Zadok `{{H6659}}` and Abiathar `{{H54}}` were the priests `{{H3548}}`", situating the role of the scribe alongside the nation's key religious leaders.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the single occurrence of **Shᵉyâʼ**:
* `{{H7724}}` **Shᵉvâʼ** (Sheva): This is the name for which `{{H7864}}` is a marginal reading. Defined as "false; Sheva, an Israelite", it also appears as the name of a man who was the "father of Machbenah" [[1 Chronicles 2:49]].
* `{{H5608}}` **çâphar** (scribe): This word defines the role held by Sheva. Its root meaning is to inscribe, enumerate, or recount. Beyond the role of a writer, it is used to describe how the heavens **declare** God's glory [[Psalms 19:1]] and the psalmist's intent to **shew forth** God's works [[Psalms 9:1]].
* `{{H6659}}` **Tsâdôwq** (Zadok): A priest mentioned alongside Sheva. Defined as "just", Zadok was a prominent figure whose descendants, the "sons of Zadok", were recognized for their faithful service in the sanctuary [[Ezekiel 44:15]].
* `{{H54}}` **ʼEbyâthâr** (Abiathar): The other priest mentioned in [[2 Samuel 20:25]]. His name means "father of abundance". He served alongside Zadok but was later thrust out from the priesthood by Solomon [[1 Kings 2:27]].
* `{{H3548}}` **kôhên** (priest): This term describes the office of Zadok and Abiathar. A **priest** is one who officiates and holds a position as a principal officer, central to Israel's worship and relationship with God [[Exodus 19:6]].
### Theological Significance
While the name **Shᵉyâʼ** itself does not carry direct theological weight, its context illuminates key roles within Israel's covenant community.
* **The Office of the Scribe:** The position held by Sheva `{{H7864}}` was vital for recording and declaring truth. The root word for scribe, **çâphar** `{{H5608}}`, is used not just for administrative record-keeping but also for proclaiming God's works, as when the psalmist vows to **declare** the works of the Lord [[Psalms 118:17]].
* **The Structure of Religious Leadership:** The mention of the scribe alongside the **priests** `{{H3548}}` Zadok and Abiathar in [[2 Samuel 20:25]] shows an ordered system of governance. The priesthood was foundational, tasked with ministering before the Lord [[Joel 2:17]] and serving as the spiritual representatives for what was meant to be a "kingdom of **priests**" [[Exodus 19:6]].
* **Faithful Service:** The figures mentioned with Sheva provide a study in leadership. The line of **Zadok** `{{H6659}}` is later praised for keeping charge of the sanctuary [[Ezekiel 44:15]], while **Abiathar** `{{H54}}` is removed from his office [[1 Kings 2:27]], demonstrating the importance of faithfulness in positions of spiritual authority.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7864}}` **Shᵉyâʼ** is a rare textual variant for the name Sheva. Its sole appearance in scripture places this individual in the official role of a **scribe** `{{H5608}}`. Though the name itself is obscure, its context in [[2 Samuel 20:25]] is significant, positioning the administrative function of the scribe alongside the sacred office of the **priest** `{{H3548}}` as represented by **Zadok** `{{H6659}}` and **Abiathar** `{{H54}}`. This single verse provides a valuable glimpse into the ordered leadership structure of ancient Israel.
TRV