### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **sheken**, represented by `{{H7933}}`, defines a **residence** or **habitation**. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its significance comes from its context as the dwelling place designated by God himself.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H7933}}` is found in a command regarding centralized worship. God instructs Israel not to worship in any place they see fit, but to go "unto the place which the LORD your God shall choose... to put his name there, even unto his **habitation** shall ye seek, and thither thou shalt come" [[Deuteronomy 12:5]]. Here, the **habitation** is identified as a unique location, chosen by God out of all the tribes, to be the focal point for His presence and the people's worship.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context clarify the meaning of God's habitation:
* `{{H4725}}` **mâqôwm** (place): This word, defined as "a spot... a locality," is used in parallel with `{{H7933}}`. It emphasizes that God’s dwelling is a specific, physical location that He prepares [[Exodus 23:20]] and chooses for His name to be recorded [[Exodus 20:24]].
* `{{H977}}` **bâchar** (choose): Meaning "to try, i.e. (by implication) select," this word underscores that the selection of the habitation is a divine act, not a human one. God is the one who chooses the place where His people will meet Him, just as He has chosen Israel itself [[Isaiah 14:1]].
* `{{H1875}}` **dârash** (seek): This term for seeking, which can also mean "to worship," outlines the required human response to God's chosen habitation. The command is not just to know where the place is, but to actively and diligently pursue it, as one is to seek the LORD himself [[Isaiah 55:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7933}}` is significant despite its rarity, establishing key principles for relating to God.
* **Centralized Presence:** The concept of a singular **habitation** establishes a central point for Israel's worship and national identity, a place where God's presence is uniquely manifested.
* **Divine Initiative:** God is the one who chooses the **habitation** [[Deuteronomy 12:5]]. It is He who determines where and how He will dwell among His people, placing His **name** `{{H8034}}`, or His character and authority, in that location.
* **Required Pursuit:** The proper response to God's presence is to **seek** `{{H1875}}` His dwelling. This action implies a deliberate and focused worship, a pilgrimage to the place God has appointed.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7933}}` **sheken**, while appearing only once, provides a powerful name for God's designated **habitation** on earth. It is not just any residence, but a divinely chosen place that serves as the nexus of God's presence and His people's worship. The term encapsulates the truth that God himself initiates relationship, establishes the terms of fellowship, and calls His people to actively seek Him in the place He has provided.
TRV