### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shayish**, represented by `{{H7893}}`, translates to **marble**. Its definition is derived from an unused root that means to bleach or whiten, highlighting the stone's characteristic color. This term appears **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible, making its sole appearance a significant point of study.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{H7893}}` is found in the context of King David's extensive preparations for the construction of the temple. In [[1 Chronicles 29:2]], David recounts the materials he has gathered with all his **might** `{{H3581}}` for the **house** `{{H1004}}` of his **God** `{{H430}}`. **Marble** is listed at the end of a long and valuable inventory that includes **gold** `{{H2091}}`, **silver** `{{H3701}}`, **brass** `{{H5178}}`, **iron** `{{H1270}}`, **wood** `{{H6086}}`, and various types of **precious** `{{H3368}}` and ornamental **stones** `{{H68}}`, all collected in **abundance** `{{H7230}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its primary context enrich the meaning of **shayish**:
* `{{H68}}` **'eben** (a stone): This is the general term for stone, used alongside **shayish** to specify "marble stones". It is foundational to building and is also used figuratively, as in the "precious corner stone" laid in Zion [[Isaiah 28:16]].
* `{{H3368}}` **yâqâr** (precious): This word, meaning valuable or costly, is used to describe the stones gathered alongside **marble**. Its use emphasizes the great worth and honor associated with the materials for the temple, as in "every precious stone was thy covering" [[Ezekiel 28:13]].
* `{{H1004}}` **bayith** (house): This is the destination for the **marble** and all other prepared materials. It signifies not just a physical structure but a place of dwelling and worship, a concept central to passages like, "as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD" [[Joshua 24:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7893}}` is derived entirely from its singular, powerful context.
* **Worthy Offerings:** The inclusion of **marble** alongside materials like **gold** `{{H2091}}` and **silver** `{{H3701}}` demonstrates a commitment to offering God the best, most beautiful, and most enduring materials for His house [[1 Chronicles 29:2]].
* **Abundant Preparation:** David's gathering of "marble stones in **abundance**" `{{H7230}}` illustrates the principle of generous and wholehearted giving. The preparation for the temple was not done sparingly but with all of one's **might** `{{H3581}}` and resources.
* **Lasting Foundations:** As a durable and beautiful building material, **marble** `{{H7893}}` symbolizes the desire to create a permanent and glorious place for worship, reflecting the eternal nature of the **God** `{{H430}}` it was meant to honor [[1 Chronicles 29:2]].
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H7893}}` **shayish** is a rare word, its single appearance is highly instructive. It represents the value, beauty, and permanence of the materials deemed worthy for the **house** `{{H1004}}` of God. Its context in [[1 Chronicles 29:2]] firmly associates it with themes of lavish preparation, generous giving, and the human desire to honor God with the finest and most lasting of offerings.
TRV