The Hebrew word שָׁלַשׁ (shâlash), represented by H8027, is a root used to denote the number three in various forms, such as making something triplicate, performing an action a third time, or referencing a duration of three. It appears 9 times across 6 unique verses. Its application ranges from specifying age and time to dividing land and creating powerful metaphors for strength.
In its biblical usage, H8027 provides specific, threefold qualifications. It is used to establish the age of animals in a divine covenant, as when God commands Abram to take a heifer, a she goat, and a ram each being three years old Genesis 15:9. It structures a command for repetition to show emphasis, as when Elijah instructs the people to douse the altar with water a third time 1 Kings 18:34. The word also functions to divide space, as in the instruction to divide the land into three parts to establish cities of refuge Deuteronomy 19:3, and to measure time, as when Jonathan tells David to stay for three days 1 Samuel 20:19. Figuratively, it conveys strength in the well-known saying that a threefold cord is not quickly broken Ecclesiastes 4:12.
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which triplication or the number three is significant:
- H8138 shânâh (do the second time): This word for repetition is used directly alongside H8027 to build a sequence of actions. In Elijah's demonstration on Mount Carmel, the people are told to "do it the second time" before being commanded to "do it the third time" 1 Kings 18:34.
- H8147 shᵉnayim (two): This word is often used in contrast or progression with the concept of three. In Ecclesiastes, it is noted that if one person is overpowered, two can withstand, leading to the conclusion about the superior strength of a threefold cord Ecclesiastes 4:12.
- H2339 chûwṭ (cord, thread): This is the object described as being made strong through a threefold nature. The principle that a threefold cord is not easily broken uses this word to create a powerful metaphor for unity and resilience Ecclesiastes 4:12.
The theological weight of H8027 is evident in its application within divine commands and symbolic statements.
- Covenantal Specification: The use of three years old for the animals in God's covenant with Abram suggests a standard of completeness or maturity appropriate for a sacred act Genesis 15:9.
- Divine Order and Provision: The command to divide the land into three parts for cities of refuge demonstrates a divinely ordained structure for justice and mercy, ensuring that a slayer has a place to flee Deuteronomy 19:3.
- Symbol of Strength and Unity: The "threefold cord" is a well-known biblical illustration of strength that comes from unity. While one may prevail, and two can withstand, the threefold structure is presented as highly resilient and not quickly broken Ecclesiastes 4:12.
- Emphasis in Divine Acts: The repetition of dousing the altar a third time before God sends fire from heaven serves to remove all doubt and magnify the power of the LORD's action 1 Kings 18:34.
In summary, H8027 shâlash is more than a numerical designation; it is a word used to structure divine commands, establish sacred time and space, and symbolize enduring strength. Whether specifying the age of a sacrificial animal, marking a period of waiting, or illustrating the power of unity, it consistently points to a sense of completeness, emphasis, and purposeful order within the biblical narrative.
TRV