### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shâkach**, represented by `{{H7911}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to forget**. It appears **102 times** across **95 unique verses** in the Bible. The term signifies being oblivious to something, either from a lack of memory or a want of attention, and is used to describe the act of mislaying or causing something to be forgotten.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7911}}` is central to the covenant relationship between God and His people. It is frequently used in commands urging Israel not to **forget** the LORD, His laws, or His works ([[Deuteronomy 4:9]], [[Psalms 103:2]]). Forgetting God is presented as a grave sin, often leading to idolatry and apostasy ([[Judges 3:7]], [[Jeremiah 2:32]], [[Hosea 4:6]]). Conversely, individuals often cry out to God, feeling **forgotten** in times of distress ([[Psalms 13:1]], [[Isaiah 49:14]]). The word also appears in a mundane sense, such as when a harvester has **forgot** a sheaf in the field [[Deuteronomy 24:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller understanding of memory and faithfulness:
* `{{H2142}}` **zâkar** (properly, to mark (so as to be recognized), i.e. to remember): As the direct antonym of forgetting, it is often used in pleas for God to act. In her distress, Hannah asks the LORD to **remember** her and not **forget** his handmaid [[1 Samuel 1:11]].
* `{{H5800}}` **ʻâzab** (to loosen, i.e. relinquish, permit, etc.): This word for "forsake" is often paired with forgetting to express a state of complete abandonment. The people cry out in exile, asking why God would **forget** them forever and **forsake** them for so long [[Lamentations 5:20]].
* `{{H8104}}` **shâmar** (properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e. guard): This term for keeping or taking heed is presented as the preventative measure against forgetting. Israel is warned to **take heed** to themselves and **keep** their souls diligently, lest they **forget** the things they have seen [[Deuteronomy 4:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7911}}` is significant, highlighting key spiritual principles:
* **Covenantal Responsibility:** To **forget** God, His commandments, or His covenant is a deliberate act of unfaithfulness that carries severe consequences [[Deuteronomy 8:19]]. The people are warned that forgetting God will lead them to perish.
* **Divine Faithfulness:** In contrast to human fallibility, God's perfect memory is a source of hope. He promises not to **forget** His people, comparing His faithfulness to something even stronger than a mother's bond with her child [[Isaiah 49:15]]. God also pledges not to **forget** the covenant He made with their fathers [[Deuteronomy 4:31]].
* **The Experience of Suffering:** The feeling of being **forgotten** by God is a profound expression of human suffering and spiritual crisis. The psalmist asks why God has **forgotten** him [[Psalms 42:9]] and why He hides His face [[Psalms 13:1]].
* **Promise of Restoration:** Forgetting can also be a blessing. God promises a future where former troubles are **forgotten** [[Isaiah 65:16]] and where His people will **forget** the shame of their youth [[Isaiah 54:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7911}}` is far more than a simple reference to memory loss. It is a critical concept in scripture that defines the state of one's relationship with God. The act of forgetting represents a departure from covenant loyalty, while the promise of not being forgotten by God serves as a cornerstone of divine assurance. The word illustrates the stark contrast between human frailty and God's unwavering faithfulness.
TRV