### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shâlôwsh**, represented by `{{H7969}}`, is the primitive number for **three**. It appears 430 times in 381 unique verses, demonstrating its wide application in scripture. Beyond its basic function as a cardinal number, it is also used ordinally for "third" and to denote repetition, as in "thrice."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H7969}}` is used to specify quantities and timeframes that are central to the story. Abraham is visited by **three** men before the destruction of Sodom [[Genesis 18:2]]. After being born, Moses is hidden for **three** months [[Exodus 2:2]]. Jonah remains in the belly of the great fish for **three** days and **three** nights [[Jonah 1:17]]. The number is also crucial for legal matters, where a fact must be established by the testimony of two or **three** witnesses [[Deuteronomy 19:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several other numbers and terms are used in conjunction with `{{H7969}}` to build meaning:
* `{{H6471}}` **paʻam** (time(-s)): This word is often paired with `{{H7969}}` to signify repetition. The men of Israel were commanded to appear before the LORD **three** times in a year for the feasts [[Deuteronomy 16:16]].
* `{{H702}}` **ʼarbaʻ** (four): This number is used in a recurring prophetic formula in Amos, where the LORD declares judgment "For **three** transgressions... and for **four**," indicating a full and final measure of iniquity [[Amos 1:3]].
* `{{H8147}}` **shᵉnayim** (two): This number is frequently used alongside `{{H7969}}` to establish a minimum requirement for legal testimony, highlighting a principle of confirmed truth [[Deuteronomy 17:6]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H7969}}` is evident in its application to divine patterns and legal principles.
* **Judicial Standard:** The requirement for **three** witnesses establishes a foundational principle for justice and the confirmation of a matter, ensuring that judgment is not based on a single account [[Deuteronomy 19:15]].
* **Periods of Trial and Decision:** Significant periods of testing or waiting are often marked by this number. David is given a choice between **three** years of famine, **three** months of fleeing his enemies, or **three** days of pestilence [[2 Samuel 24:13]]. Esther calls for a fast of **three** days before she approaches the king [[Esther 4:16]].
* **Symbol of Completeness:** In the prophetic judgments against various nations, the "for **three** transgressions, and for four" formula uses `{{H7969}}` as a base number signifying a complete and unforgivable pattern of sin ([[Amos 2:1]], [[Amos 2:6]]).
* **Significant Groupings:** The number is used to designate important groups of individuals, such as Job's **three** friends [[Job 2:11]], the **three** righteous men Noah, Daniel, and Job [[Ezekiel 14:14]], and the **three** sons of Zeruiah [[2 Samuel 2:18]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7969}}` is far more than a simple numerical value. It provides structure to biblical law, marks periods of significant spiritual trial, and adds emphasis to prophetic declarations. From counting flocks and people to defining the terms of divine judgment, **shâlôwsh** functions as a number that consistently carries weight and underscores patterns of divine order and significance.
TRV