### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **seker**, represented by `{{H7938}}`, is a term with a dual meaning, signifying either **wages; reward** or **sluices**. It is a rare word, appearing only **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning is therefore highly dependent on the specific context in which it is found.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{H7938}}` present a sharp contrast. In Proverbs, it signifies a positive outcome for righteous living, where one who sows righteousness is promised a "sure **reward**" [[Proverbs 11:18]]. This reward stands in direct opposition to the "deceitful work" of the wicked. Conversely, in Isaiah, the word denotes a man-made structure. As part of a prophecy of judgment, the text states that those who make **sluices** and ponds for fish will see their purposes broken [[Isaiah 19:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{H7938}}` appears:
* `{{H6666}}` **tsᵉdâqâh** (rightness; justice, righteousness): This word is intrinsically linked to the concept of reward. It is the act of sowing **righteousness** that results in the "sure reward" mentioned in [[Proverbs 11:18]].
* `{{H7563}}` **râshâʻ** (morally wrong; wicked): This term provides the direct contrast to the righteous. The work of the **wicked** is described as deceitful, unlike the reward promised to those who pursue righteousness [[Proverbs 11:18]].
* `{{H8356}}` **shâthâh** (a basis; foundation, purpose): In Isaiah's prophecy, the "sluices" are connected to the "purposes" or foundations of the people, which are destined to be broken, highlighting the futility of their labor [[Isaiah 19:10]].
* `{{H571}}` **ʼemeth** (stability; certainty, truth, trustworthiness): The reward for righteousness is described as **sure**, or built on truth, contrasting it with the "deceitful" work of the wicked [[Proverbs 11:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H7938}}` is derived from its two distinct applications:
* **The Principle of Consequence:** The use in Proverbs illustrates the direct relationship between action and outcome. Sowing righteousness yields a "sure **reward**," reinforcing the biblical theme that righteous living leads to a stable and true result from God [[Proverbs 11:18]].
* **The Fragility of Human Works:** In Isaiah, the "sluices" represent human industry and planning. Their destruction in judgment shows that man-made systems of support and prosperity are fragile and will fail when they are the foundation of a society [[Isaiah 19:10]].
* **Moral Contrast:** The word is used to frame a clear moral choice. One path is sowing righteousness for a "sure **reward**" [[Proverbs 11:18]], while the other involves the "deceitful work" of the wicked [[Proverbs 11:18]] or building foundations that are ultimately broken [[Isaiah 19:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7938}}` **seker** encapsulates a powerful biblical principle through its dual meanings. It can be the guaranteed **reward** that comes from righteous action or a physical **sluice** representing human efforts that are ultimately proven futile. The word illustrates that the value and permanence of one's work are determined by its moral and spiritual foundation, resulting in either a sure reward or a broken purpose.
TRV