### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shel**, represented by `{{H7945}}`, is a relative term used to indicate **cause** or **sake**. It is derived from the relative pronoun ʼăsher `{{H834}}` and appears **3 times** in **3 unique verses**, translating to phrases like "on account of" or "for whose cause."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The usage of `{{H7945}}` is concentrated on establishing causality and reason. In the book of Jonah, it is used first by the mariners who cast lots to determine "for whose **cause**" a great evil had come upon them [[Jonah 1:7]]. Shortly after, Jonah himself uses the term to take responsibility, declaring that the tempest was upon them "for my **sake**" [[Jonah 1:12]]. In Ecclesiastes, it is used to describe the limits of human understanding, noting that even if a man should **labour** to seek out God's work, he cannot find it [[Ecclesiastes 8:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which **shel** appears:
* `{{H834}}` **ʼăsher** (who, which, what, that): As the relative pronoun from which `{{H7945}}` is derived, this word establishes the connection or relationship in a clause. It is used in phrases like "that which" to introduce a subject or reason [[Genesis 22:18]].
* `{{H7451}}` **raʻ** (bad or (as noun) evil): This term often describes the negative event or state for which a cause is sought. The mariners in Jonah used lots to find the cause of the **evil** upon them [[Jonah 1:7]].
* `{{H1245}}` **bâqash** (to search out): This word for seeking is linked to `{{H7945}}` in the context of human effort. In Ecclesiastes, a man may **labour** `{{H5998}}` to **seek** out an answer, highlighting the reason for his toil [[Ecclesiastes 8:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7945}}` is centered on accountability and divine sovereignty.
* **Accountability for Sin:** The primary use of `{{H7945}}` in the book of Jonah establishes a direct link between human action and divine consequence. The sailors search for the "cause" of the evil [[Jonah 1:7]], and Jonah admits it is for his "sake" [[Jonah 1:12]], illustrating the principle of personal responsibility before God.
* **The Limits of Human Knowledge:** In Ecclesiastes, `{{H7945}}` is part of a statement on the futility of man's effort to fully comprehend God's work. Though a wise **man** `{{H2450}}` may **labour** to **seek it out** `{{H1245}}`, he cannot **find** `{{H4672}}` it, highlighting God's inscrutable sovereignty [[Ecclesiastes 8:17]].
* **Identifying the Source of Calamity:** The question "for whose **cause**" [[Jonah 1:7]] reveals a worldview where significant misfortune has a specific origin. This drives the characters to identify the source of the disruption in order to restore peace, as seen when the **sea** `{{H3220}}` becomes **calm** `{{H8367}}` after Jonah is cast out.
### Summary
In summary, **shel** `{{H7945}}` is a rare but potent Hebrew word that pinpoints reason and accountability. Though appearing only three times, its usage is critical in the narratives where it is found. It frames the dramatic search for the cause of a life-threatening **tempest** `{{H5591}}` in Jonah and underscores the philosophical limits of human inquiry in Ecclesiastes. Ultimately, `{{H7945}}` serves to connect actions to their consequences, whether it is a person's sin bringing about a storm or a person's labor failing to grasp the full **work** `{{H4639}}` of **God** `{{H430}}`.
TRV