The Hebrew word shikkôwr, represented by H7910, refers to one who is intoxicated, either as a temporary state or a persistent habit. Its definition includes "drunk(-ard, -en, -en man)". This term appears 13 times across 13 unique verses, often carrying strong negative connotations related to folly, vulnerability, and divine judgment.
In biblical narratives, H7910 is used to describe both literal and metaphorical drunkenness. Literally, it portrays individuals in a state of excess, such as Nabal, whose heart was merry because he was "very drunken" at a feast 1 Samuel 25:36, or King Elah, who was assassinated while "drinking himself drunk" 1 Kings 16:9. Figuratively, the prophets use it as a powerful symbol. Isaiah refers to the "drunkards of Ephraim" to condemn their pride Isaiah 28:1, and Jeremiah describes feeling "like a drunken man" when overwhelmed by the word of the Lord Jeremiah 23:9. The term also illustrates physical instability, as when the earth is prophesied to "reel to and fro like a drunkard" Isaiah 24:20.
Several related words provide deeper context for the state of being a shikkôwr:
- H3196 yayin (wine): As the direct cause of intoxication, this word is frequently linked to H7910. The drunkards of Ephraim are described as being "overcome with wine" Isaiah 28:1, and Jeremiah feels like a man whom "wine hath overcome" Jeremiah 23:9.
- H5128 nûwaʻ (stagger, reel): This word describes the physical effect of drunkenness. The psalmist notes that those in distress "stagger like a drunken man" Psalms 107:27. It defines the unsteady motion that is characteristic of a shikkôwr.
- H1348 gêʼûwth (pride): This is morally linked to drunkenness. The "drunkards of Ephraim" are explicitly associated with the "crown of pride" (Isaiah 28:1, Isaiah 28:3), connecting the state of intoxication to arrogance and a downfall.
The thematic weight of H7910 is significant, often serving as a warning.
- Symbol of Judgment and Instability: The image of a drunkard is used to portray the effects of God's judgment. The Lord causes Egypt to err "as a drunken man staggereth in his vomit" Isaiah 19:14, and makes the wicked "stagger like a drunken man" in darkness Job 12:25, signifying confusion and helplessness.
- A Mark of Folly and Vulnerability: Drunkenness is associated with a lack of wisdom and increased susceptibility to harm. A parable in the mouth of a fool is as useless and dangerous as a thorn in the hand of a drunkard Proverbs 26:9. Rulers like King Elah and Benhadad are shown "drinking himself drunk," a state which precedes their defeat or death (1 Kings 16:9, 1 Kings 20:16).
- A Call to Wakefulness: In a direct command, the prophet Joel calls for the drunkards to "Awake" and weep, highlighting that their state of stupor has left them unaware of impending disaster Joel 1:5.
In summary, H7910 is more than a simple descriptor for intoxication. It is a potent biblical symbol for moral failure, poor judgment, and physical vulnerability. Whether describing a foolish man at a feast or a nation staggering under judgment, shikkôwr consistently illustrates a state of being dangerously out of control, disconnected from wisdom, and ripe for downfall.
TRV