The Hebrew word shalʼănân, represented by H7946, means tranquil or being at ease. It is a rare term, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible. Its singular use provides a focused and potent description of a state of complete, untroubled peace and security.
The sole appearance of H7946 is in the book of Job, where it is used to describe the death of a seemingly prosperous individual. The verse states, "One dieth in his full strength, being wholly at ease and quiet" Job 21:23. In this context, the word contributes to Job's argument questioning why some people, despite their ways, live lives of comfort and die peacefully, in full possession of their strength and tranquility.
Several words appearing alongside H7946 in its only context help to define its meaning:
- H7961 shâlêv (tranquil; quiet-ness): This word is used in parallel with shalʼănân in Job 21:23 to emphasize a state of being quiet and at ease. It is also used to describe Jerusalem in a time of prosperity Zechariah 7:7.
- H8537 tôm (completeness; integrity): In Job 21:23, it describes the "full" strength of the one who dies at ease. It more broadly refers to moral integrity and uprightness, as seen in the description of a just man who walks in his integrity Proverbs 20:7.
- H6106 ʻetsem (a bone; selfsame): This word for "strength" in Job 21:23 literally means bone. It is used throughout Scripture to refer to the physical frame, such as the dry bones in Ezekiel's vision Ezekiel 37:4 or as the seat of deep emotional and spiritual experience Jeremiah 20:9.
- H4191 mûwth (to die): As the verb in the passage, it sets the ultimate context for shalʼănân. The state of being at ease is directly linked to the moment of death, a theme central to God's warnings and promises (Genesis 2:17, Ezekiel 18:20).
The theological weight of H7946 is tied to its role in the complex debate within the book of Job.
- The Problem of Prosperity: The word is used to build a picture of a person who dies "wholly at ease," challenging the simple belief that suffering is always the result of sin. It forces a confrontation with the reality that ease and a peaceful death (H4191) are not always reserved for the righteous.
- Holistic Tranquility: Paired with "full strength" (H8537 H6106), shalʼănân suggests a state of complete physical and emotional well-being. It is the portrait of a life that appears to lack nothing, even at its conclusion.
- A State of Being: Unlike a fleeting emotion, shalʼănân describes a condition of existence. It is used alongside shâlêv (H7961) to paint a powerful image of security and quietness, which stands in stark contrast to the turmoil and affliction experienced by Job.
In summary, H7946 shalʼănân is a highly specific term for a state of profound tranquility and ease. Its single, powerful use in Job 21:23 makes it a key element in the biblical exploration of suffering, justice, and divine providence. The word captures the unsettling reality that a life of outward peace and a quiet death are not always indicators of a person's inner moral state, contributing a vital nuance to the Bible's complex theological landscape.
TRV