### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shâkên**, represented by `{{H7934}}`, is a term for a **resident** or **neighbour**. It appears 20 times across 20 unique verses in the Bible. Derived from a root meaning to dwell, it describes not just physical proximity but also the relationship between people or nations living near one another, whether as fellow-citizens, inhabitants, or adjacent communities.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H7934}}` is used in various contexts to define relationships and location. It can refer to an individual living next door, as when a household is instructed to join with its **neighbour** to share the Passover lamb [[Exodus 12:4]], or when Elisha tells a widow to borrow vessels from all her **neighbours** [[2 Kings 4:3]]. The term also describes the inhabitants of a city or region, such as the **inhabitants** of Samaria who fear for their idols [[Hosea 10:5]]. On a larger scale, it refers to neighboring nations, which are sometimes described as "evil **neighbours**" subject to God's judgment for harming His people [[Jeremiah 12:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of who a **shâkên** is:
* `{{H7453}}` **rêaʻ** (friend, companion, neighbour): This term often denotes a closer associate or friend. It is used alongside **shâkên** to describe a community facing judgment, where "the **neighbour** and his **friend** shall perish" [[Jeremiah 6:21]].
* `{{H7138}}` **qârôwb** (near, kinsman, neighbour): This word emphasizes proximity. It is used to praise a **neighbour** `{{H7934}}` that is **near** `{{H7138}}` as being better in a crisis than a brother who is far away [[Proverbs 27:10]].
* `{{H3427}}` **yâshab** (to dwell, to sit, to remain): As a verb, it describes the state of being a **shâkên**. The **inhabitant** `{{H7934}}` of Zion is part of the people that **dwell** `{{H3427}}` there and will be forgiven [[Isaiah 33:24]].
* `{{H1004}}` **bayith** (house, family): A **neighbour** is often defined in relation to their home. In the Passover instructions, a **neighbour** `{{H7934}}` is the one living next to one's **house** `{{H1004}}`.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H7934}}` is evident in its application to both personal ethics and divine judgment.
* **Community Responsibility:** The concept of a neighbour underscores mutual obligation. The Israelites were instructed to borrow from their **neighbour** before the exodus [[Exodus 3:22]], and the psalmist laments being a reproach among his **neighbours** [[Psalms 31:11]], indicating the importance of social standing.
* **National Reproach and Honor:** The relationship between Israel and its neighbours often reflects Israel's relationship with God. When the nation suffers, it becomes a **reproach** to its **neighbours** [[Psalms 44:13]]. Conversely, the psalmist calls on God to punish the **neighbours** who have reproached the Lord [[Psalms 79:12]].
* **Divine Judgment:** The term is frequently used for nations that oppose God's people. The LORD warns of judgment against the "evil **neighbours**" of Israel [[Jeremiah 12:14]] and uses the destruction of Sodom, Gomorrah, and their **neighbour** cities as a symbol of utter ruin [[Jeremiah 50:40]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7934}}` extends beyond a simple address to encompass the complex web of relationships that define a community. It can describe a supportive fellow citizen, an inhabitant of a specific land, or a hostile adjacent nation. The word illustrates the biblical principle that being a good or evil **neighbour** has profound consequences, influencing personal well-being, national honor, and divine judgment.
TRV