### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shalhebeth**, represented by `{{H7957}}`, describes a flare of fire or a (flaming) flame. This specific term appears only **3 times** in **3 unique verses**, making each occurrence significant. It is used to depict a fire of great intensity, whether as a metaphor for overwhelming emotion or as an instrument of divine, consuming judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H7957}}` conveys immense power. In Song of Solomon, it is used to describe the nature of love{H160} and jealousy{H7068}, whose coals of fire produce "a most vehement **flame**" [[Song of Solomon 8:6]]. In the book of Job, the word takes on a destructive quality, where the **flame** of judgment will "dry up{H3001} his branches" [[Job 15:30]], signifying the ruin of the wicked. Ezekiel uses the term to describe an unstoppable divine judgment, a "flaming{H3852} **flame**" kindled by God that will devour every tree and cannot be quenched{H3518} [[Ezekiel 20:47]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and meaning of **shalhebeth**:
* `{{H160}}` **'ahăbâh** (love): This word is directly characterized by the intensity of `{{H7957}}`, where **love** is described as being as strong{H5794} as death with a "most vehement flame" [[Song of Solomon 8:6]].
* `{{H3852}}` **lehâbâh** (flame): Used in conjunction with `{{H7957}}` in [[Ezekiel 20:47]] to create the intensified phrase "flaming **flame**," emphasizing the all-consuming nature of the fire.
* `{{H3001}}` **yâbêsh** (to dry up): This verb describes the action of the `{{H7957}}` flame in [[Job 15:30]], highlighting its destructive capacity to **dry up** the branches of the wicked.
* `{{H3518}}` **kâbâh** (to quench): The divine flame in Ezekiel's prophecy is defined by the fact that it cannot **be quenched**, showing its irresistible and final nature [[Ezekiel 20:47]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7957}}` lies in its portrayal of ultimate and consuming forces.
* **The Intensity of Divine Passion:** In [[Song of Solomon 8:6]], the "most vehement flame" is linked to love, portraying it as a powerful, unstoppable force comparable to death{H4194} and the grave{H7585}. It illustrates an emotion that burns with divine intensity.
* **The Finality of Divine Judgment:** The flame of `{{H7957}}` serves as a tool of inescapable judgment. In [[Ezekiel 20:47]], it is a fire{H784} kindled{H3341} by the Lord{H136} GOD{H3069} that cannot be quenched. Similarly, in [[Job 15:30]], it represents the consequence that will dry up and destroy the wicked.
* **Unquenchable Power:** The imagery associated with **shalhebeth** is one of absolute power. Whether describing the passion of love or the fire of judgment, it is a force that cannot be extinguished or escaped, underscoring a theme of divine sovereignty and finality.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7957}}` is a rare but highly potent term for "flame." While appearing only three times, it consistently illustrates a power that is absolute and consuming. It serves as a powerful metaphor for the overwhelming intensity of love, which burns like a divine fire, and as a literal depiction of God's unquenchable judgment upon wickedness. The word **shalhebeth** encapsulates the dual nature of a divine fire: a passionate, vehement force and an instrument of final, inescapable consequence.
TRV