or שְׂמֹאל; a primitive word (rather perhaps from the same as שִׂמְלָה (by insertion of the aleph) through the idea of wrapping up); properly, dark (as enveloped), i.e. the north; hence (by orientation), the left hand; left (hand, side).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **sᵉmôʼwl**, represented by `{{H8040}}`, is a term for the **left (hand, side)**. It appears **54 times** across **53 unique verses** in the Bible. Originating from a word meaning dark or enveloped, it is used for orientation, often in contrast to the right hand, and can refer to the north. It serves not only as a physical descriptor but also as a powerful symbolic marker.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H8040}}` is frequently used to express the concept of unwavering obedience through the command to not "turn aside to the right hand or to the left" ([[Joshua 1:7]], [[Deuteronomy 5:32]]). It also describes physical and spatial arrangements, from the placement of Jacob's hands in blessing his grandsons [[Genesis 48:13]] to the strategic positioning of Gideon's army [[Judges 7:20]]. In visions, it defines the order of the heavenly realm, with the host of heaven standing on God's right and on his **left** [[1 Kings 22:19]]. The term is also used symbolically, as in Nineveh, where the people could not discern between their right and **left** hands [[Jonah 4:11]], and in the proverb stating a fool's heart is at his **left** [[Ecclesiastes 10:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the concepts of direction and position:
* `{{H3225}}` **yâmîyn** (the right hand or side): As the direct counterpart to `{{H8040}}`, this word is almost always used in parallel to establish contrast and balance. In Proverbs, wisdom offers length of days in her right hand and riches and honor in her **left hand** [[Proverbs 3:16]].
* `{{H5493}}` **çûwr** (to turn off): This verb is frequently paired with `{{H8040}}` to form the command not to deviate from God's law. The people are commanded to observe God's commands and not **turn aside** to the right hand or to the left [[Deuteronomy 5:32]].
* `{{H8041}}` **sâmaʼl** (to use the left hand or pass in that direction): This is the verbal form, meaning to go or turn left. In Genesis, Abraham offers Lot a choice, saying if Lot takes the left hand, Abraham will go right, and if Lot departs right, Abraham will **go to the left** [[Genesis 13:9]].
### Theological Significance
The conceptual weight of `{{H8040}}` is found in its consistent use as a symbol.
* **Unyielding Obedience:** The repeated command to not turn to the right or the **left** establishes a clear path of faithfulness. This directive is given to leaders like Joshua and to the nation of Israel as a whole, linking obedience directly to prosperity and stability ([[Joshua 1:7]], [[2 Kings 22:2]]).
* **Divine and Earthly Order:** The word is used to map out both heavenly and earthly spaces according to a divine plan. It describes the arrangement of angels around God's throne [[1 Kings 22:19]], the placement of pillars and furniture in the temple ([[2 Chronicles 3:17]], [[1 Kings 7:49]]), and the protective walls of water for Israel [[Exodus 14:22]].
* **Symbolic Contrast:** The left side is often presented in contrast to the right to illustrate a point. While the right hand is associated with a wise man's heart, the **left** is associated with a fool's [[Ecclesiastes 10:2]]. This contrast highlights differing values, states, or outcomes.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8040}}` is far more than a simple directional word. It functions as a cornerstone for one of the Bible's primary metaphors for obedience—staying on the path without deviation. From the literal positioning of hands and armies to the symbolic mapping of heaven and the human heart, **sᵉmôʼwl** carries significant weight, illustrating how physical orientation is used in scripture to convey profound spiritual truths.
TRV