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.
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.
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.
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.
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