a primitive root; to become tipsy; in a qualified sense, to satiate with astimulating drink or (figuratively) influence; (be filled with) drink (abundantly), (be, make) drunk(-en), be merry. (Superlative of שָׁקָה.)
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shâkar**, represented by `{{H7937}}`, is a primitive root meaning to **become tipsy** or, in a qualified sense, to be satiated with a stimulating drink. Appearing **19 times** in **19 unique verses**, it describes the state of being drunk or merry, and is also used figuratively for being overcome by a powerful influence. The word is considered a superlative of `{{H8248}}` shâqâh, "to drink."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H7937}}` is used to describe both literal and figurative intoxication. Its earliest literal use is in the account of Noah, who drank wine and **was drunken** in his tent [[Genesis 9:21]]. It is also used when Eli wrongfully accuses Hannah of being **drunken** [[1 Samuel 1:14]] and when David purposefully **made** Uriah **drunk** [[2 Samuel 11:13]]. In a positive context, it describes the merriment of Joseph's brothers, who **were merry** with him [[Genesis 43:34]]. Figuratively, the term often depicts a state of confusion or helplessness as a result of divine judgment. The Lord declares through Isaiah, "they are **drunken**, but not with wine; they stagger, but not with strong drink" [[Isaiah 29:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller understanding of the concept of intoxication in the scriptures:
* `{{H7941}}` **shêkâr** (strong drink): This noun refers to an intensely alcoholic liquor. It is often used to describe the substance that causes the state of being drunk, as in the warning that **strong drink** is raging [[Proverbs 20:1]] and that people can stagger from it [[Isaiah 29:9]].
* `{{H3196}}` **yayin** (wine): As the most common intoxicating beverage in the Bible, **wine** is frequently mentioned as the cause of being drunk. It is the **wine** that Noah drank before he was drunken [[Genesis 9:21]] and the substance from Babylon's cup that made the nations mad [[Jeremiah 51:7]].
* `{{H8354}}` **shâthâh** (to drink): This verb describes the act of imbibing that leads to the state of `{{H7937}}`. It is used in direct parallel in passages like [[Haggai 1:6]], where the people **drink**, but are not filled with drink.
* `{{H8248}}` **shâqâh** (to quaff, give a drink): This is the root from which `{{H7937}}` is derived. It signifies the act of providing a drink, as when one gives his neighbor a drink to make him drunken [[Habakkuk 2:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7937}}` is significant, primarily as a metaphor for divine judgment and spiritual condition.
* **Metaphor for Divine Judgment:** God frequently uses the imagery of making nations **drunk** to describe His wrath. He vows to **make drunk** Babylon's princes so they sleep a perpetual sleep [[Jeremiah 51:57]] and to **make** His arrows **drunk** with blood [[Deuteronomy 32:42]]. This state signifies total defeat, confusion, and the inability to resist God's fury.
* **Spiritual Stupor:** The state of being **drunken**, but not with wine, points to a condition of spiritual blindness and affliction [[Isaiah 51:21]]. The people are unable to perceive truth, staggering as if intoxicated due to their spiritual state rather than a physical substance.
* **A Sign of Curse or Blessing:** The outcome of drinking is tied to one's relationship with God. As a curse for disobedience, the people drink but are not **filled with drink** [[Haggai 1:6]]. In a context of intimate love and blessing, the call is to **drink abundantly** and be joyful [[Song of Solomon 5:1]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7937}}` extends far beyond the simple meaning of being intoxicated. While it describes literal drunkenness and celebratory merriment, its most profound use is as a powerful biblical metaphor. It illustrates the overwhelming nature of God's judgment that leaves nations helpless, the spiritual blindness that afflicts a disobedient people, and the abundant joy found in a right relationship. The word's usage demonstrates how a physical state can vividly portray profound spiritual realities.
TRV