### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shilyâh**, represented by `{{H7988}}`, refers to a **fetus or babe**, specifically as it is extruded in birth, or a **young one**. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the entirety of the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H7988}}` is found in a stark and harrowing prophecy within the list of curses for disobedience. In [[Deuteronomy 28:57]], it describes the horrific conditions of a siege where a woman would secretly consume her own **young one** that "cometh out from between her feet." This singular context frames the word not as a term of endearment, but as an object of desperation in a moment of utter societal collapse and divine judgment.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words appear in the same verse as `{{H7988}}`, grounding it in the context of childbirth and progeny:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son (as a builder of the family name)): This word for **children** or **sons** is used in direct parallel to **shilyâh** in its only appearance [[Deuteronomy 28:57]]. It is one of the most common words for offspring, seen in phrases like "sons of men" [[Psalms 31:19]] and in the prophecy of the "son" who is given [[Isaiah 9:6]].
* `{{H3205}}` **yâlad** (to bear young; causatively, to beget): This term, describing the act of how a woman "shall bear" her children [[Deuteronomy 28:57]], is central to narratives of lineage and birth throughout scripture, from a child being "born" [[Isaiah 9:6]] to God having "begotten" His Son [[Psalms 2:7]].
* `{{H3318}}` **yâtsâʼ** (to go (causatively, bring) out): This root word, used for the **young one** that "cometh out" [[Deuteronomy 28:57]], describes a literal emergence but is also used figuratively, such as when God's word "goeth forth" from his mouth [[Isaiah 55:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H7988}}` is derived entirely from its severe and singular context.
* **Consequences of Covenant Breaking:** The word's sole appearance is embedded within the curses declared for disobedience. Its use in [[Deuteronomy 28:57]] serves as a graphic illustration of the ultimate consequence of turning away from God's law.
* **Reversal of Natural Order:** The blessing of birth is horrifically inverted into a source of sustenance during a siege. The act of a mother consuming her "young one" represents the complete breakdown of humanity and natural affection, a state brought about by divine judgment.
* **A Stark Prophetic Warning:** The imagery associated with **shilyâh** is intentionally shocking. It functions as a powerful warning about the severity of sin and the desperation that results from being outside of God's protection and provision.
### Summary
In summary, **shilyâh** `{{H7988}}` is a term whose meaning is defined by its dark context. While it literally means a **young one** or fetus, its single use in scripture [[Deuteronomy 28:57]] transforms it into a symbol of the dire consequences of covenant failure. It demonstrates how, under judgment, the most fundamental blessings of life can be perverted, serving as a solemn and powerful warning within the biblical narrative.
TRV