### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **sᵉkîyrâh**, represented by `{{H7917}}`, is a feminine term meaning **a hiring; that is hired**. It is a rare word, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its sole use is metaphorical, describing an instrument employed by God for a specific purpose.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The only occurrence of `{{H7917}}` is in [[Isaiah 7:20]], where the Lord declares He will use a **hired** razor to enact judgment. This razor is explicitly identified as "the king `{{H4428}}` of Assyria." In this context, the word signifies that a foreign power is being employed or commissioned by God as His instrument to "shave" the land, symbolizing a thorough and humiliating judgment.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its biblical context clarify its meaning:
* `{{H1548}}` **gâlach** (to shave): A primitive root meaning **to shave** or figuratively **to lay waste**. This action is associated with judgment and humiliation, as when the Lord uses the hired razor to **shave** Israel [[Isaiah 7:20]], or when Hanun **shaved** David's servants to disgrace them [[1 Chronicles 19:4]]. It is also used in contexts of purification [[Leviticus 14:8]] and personal preparation [[Genesis 41:14]].
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (a king): This word for a **king** is used for both human rulers, like the **king** of Assyria [[Isaiah 7:20]] and King David [[2 Samuel 7:18]], and for God Himself. Scripture identifies the LORD as the **King** of Israel [[Isaiah 44:6]] and the future **king** over all the earth [[Zechariah 14:9]], establishing His ultimate authority over earthly rulers.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7917}}` is tied directly to its singular, powerful use in prophecy.
* **Divine Instrument of Judgment:** The primary significance of `{{H7917}}` is to portray God's absolute sovereignty. By describing the king of Assyria as a **hired** razor, the text shows that God commissions even foreign powers to act as His instruments of judgment [[Isaiah 7:20]].
* **Symbol of Complete Humiliation:** The purpose of this **hired** instrument is to **shave** `{{H1548}}` the head, the hair of the feet, and the beard. This action symbolizes a thorough and shaming defeat, demonstrating the comprehensive nature of the judgment God is enacting [[Isaiah 7:20]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7917}}` provides a potent, though singular, image within scripture. Its sole appearance as **hired** in [[Isaiah 7:20]] is not about a commercial transaction but about divine commissioning. It powerfully illustrates the theological principle that God can employ any agent, even an enemy nation, to fulfill His sovereign purposes of judgment and discipline.
TRV