### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shillûwm**, represented by `{{H7966}}`, is defined as a requital, signifying a form of retribution, a fee, **recompense**, or **reward**. It appears 3 times in 3 unique verses in the Bible. The term carries a dual sense, referring to both God's righteous judgment and the corrupt payments sought by wicked men.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H7966}}` appears in contexts of divine judgment and human corruption. Prophets use it to describe a future reckoning for sin. Hosea states that the "days of **recompence** are come" as a direct consequence of Israel's iniquity and hatred [[Hosea 9:7]]. Similarly, Isaiah declares "the year of **recompences** for the controversy of Zion," linking the term to the LORD's day of vengeance [[Isaiah 34:8]]. In contrast, Micah employs the word to condemn societal decay, where a judge asks for a **reward** as part of a system of evil and corruption [[Micah 7:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of recompense and judgment:
* `{{H5359}}` **nâqâm** (vengeance): This term is often paired with divine retribution and describes the act of revenge. It appears alongside recompense in prophecies concerning God's judgment upon his adversaries [[Isaiah 61:2]].
* `{{H6486}}` **pᵉquddâh** (visitation): This word refers to an official reckoning or oversight. It is used in parallel with `{{H7966}}` to describe the time when God will hold people to account, as in "the day of **visitation**" [[Isaiah 10:3]].
* `{{H7592}}` **shâʼal** (ask, require): This root word for requesting or demanding something provides context for the venal use of `{{H7966}}`. While it can be used righteously, as when God states what he does **require** of Israel [[Deuteronomy 10:12]], in Micah it describes a corrupt prince who **asketh** for a bribe [[Micah 7:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7966}}` is significant, centering on themes of divine justice and human accountability.
* **Divine Retribution:** The word establishes that there is a set time for God's **recompence**. This is not a random act but a scheduled consequence tied to his role as the ultimate judge, as seen in "the year of **recompences**" [[Isaiah 34:8]].
* **Consequence of Iniquity:** The arrival of God's recompense is directly linked to specific sins. Israel is told they will know this judgment is coming because of "the multitude of thine iniquity" [[Hosea 9:7]].
* **Perversion of Justice:** The use of `{{H7966}}` as a corrupt **reward** highlights the human capacity to subvert divine principles. When leaders "do evil with both hands earnestly" and judges demand payment, it represents a society ripe for the very divine recompense the prophets warn about [[Micah 7:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7966}}` is a powerful and specific term for requital. Though used sparingly, it effectively captures two opposing ideas: God's righteous and certain **recompense** for sin, and the perverse, venal **reward** demanded by corrupt human authorities. The word serves as a stark reminder of accountability, whether as an act of divine justice or as evidence of human wickedness.
TRV