### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shâkâh**, represented by `{{H7904}}`, is a primitive root that appears only **1 time** in the Bible. Its base definition is to roam, particularly through lust. The term is also noted as potentially being used by mistake for a similar word meaning "in the morning". This dual meaning informs its single, powerful use in scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H7904}}` is in [[Jeremiah 5:8]], where it is translated as "in the morning." The verse describes a state of profound moral corruption: "They were as fed horses **in the morning**: every one neighed after his neighbour's wife." The context, which speaks of unbridled lust and adultery, strongly aligns with the word's primary definition of roaming through lust, creating a vivid image of people behaving like well-fed, restless animals driven by base desires.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words used alongside `{{H7904}}` in [[Jeremiah 5:8]] enrich its meaning:
* `{{H2109}}` **zûwn** (feed): This root means "to nourish; feed." Its use here suggests that the people's sinful state is not born of desperation but of excess and prosperity, making them "fed" horses.
* `{{H5483}}` **çûwç** (horse): The word for **horse** often symbolizes strength, power, and military might, as seen in warnings against trusting in them for battle ([[Isaiah 31:1]], [[Proverbs 21:31]]). In Jeremiah, this strength is perverted and used for lustful pursuits.
* `{{H6670}}` **tsâhal** (neigh): This word can mean to **neigh** or bellow like an animal [[Jeremiah 50:11]], but it can also mean to cry aloud or shout with joy, often in praise to God [[Isaiah 12:6]]. Its use in [[Jeremiah 5:8]] highlights a distortion of passionate expression toward sin.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7904}}` is concentrated entirely within its single, impactful appearance.
* **A Warning Against Unrestrained Lust:** The word, in its context, serves as a stark depiction of adultery and the dangers of uncontrolled passion. The imagery of well-fed horses roaming and neighing illustrates a complete loss of moral discipline.
* **The Perils of Plenty:** The fact that the people are described as "fed" `{{H2109}}` links their sinful behavior to a state of abundance. It suggests that prosperity, without spiritual discipline, can lead to moral decay rather than gratitude.
* **Corruption of Strength:** The horse `{{H5483}}` symbolizes power, but here it is a power directed toward sin. This illustrates the theological principle that God-given strengths and passions, when not submitted to Him, become destructive.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7904}}` is a rare but potent term. While translated as "in the morning" in its only biblical verse, its core meaning of roaming through lust defines its context in [[Jeremiah 5:8]]. Paired with imagery of fed horses and animalistic neighing, it creates an unforgettable illustration of how prosperity and strength, when unchecked by moral and spiritual law, can devolve into base and destructive passions.
TRV