dual of an unused singular שָׁמֶה; from an unused root meaning to be lofty; the sky (as aloft; the dual perhaps alluding to the visible arch in which the clouds move, as well as to the higher ether where the celestial bodies revolve); air, [idiom] astrologer, heaven(-s).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shâmayim**, represented by `{{H8064}}`, is a comprehensive term for the **heavens** or sky. Derived from a root meaning "to be lofty," it appears **420 times** across **395 unique verses**. The word's dual form suggests both the visible sky where clouds move and the higher celestial realm. It encompasses the concepts of the physical sky, the air, and the divine dwelling place of God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H8064}}` is used to define the very scope of creation, often paired with the earth [[Genesis 1:1]]. It is depicted as the throne of God [[Isaiah 66:1]] and the place from which He observes humanity [[Psalms 14:2]] and sends forth judgment or blessing ([[1 Samuel 2:10]], [[Malachi 3:10]]). The heavens contain the celestial bodies—the sun, moon, and stars ([[Genesis 1:14]], [[Deuteronomy 4:19]])—and are also the domain of the "fowl of the air" [[Genesis 1:26]]. In a vision, Jacob saw it as a place of divine traffic, with angels ascending and descending between heaven and earth [[Genesis 28:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of the heavens:
* `{{H7549}}` **râqîyaʻ** (firmament): This refers to the expanse or visible arch of the sky, which God created to separate the waters. It is in the **firmament** of heaven that God placed the lights [[Genesis 1:14]].
* `{{H776}}` **ʼerets** (earth): As the direct counterpart to heaven, this word is crucial for establishing the totality of God's creation. The phrase "heaven and **earth**" is a declaration of God's complete dominion [[Genesis 1:1]].
* `{{H6635}}` **tsâbâʼ** (host): This term often describes the "host of heaven," referring to the celestial bodies [[Deuteronomy 4:19]] or the angelic beings who stand before God's throne [[1 Kings 22:19]].
* `{{H7834}}` **shachaq** (sky): Often translated as clouds or skies, this word describes the upper atmosphere. God's faithfulness is said to reach the **skies** [[Psalms 36:5]], and in a plea for divine intervention, the heavens are asked to "drop down" and the **skies** to "pour down righteousness" [[Isaiah 45:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8064}}` is immense, framing our understanding of God's majesty, authority, and relationship to the world.
* **Divine Creation and Sovereignty:** The creation of the heavens is the first act mentioned in the Bible, establishing God as the ultimate maker and ruler [[Genesis 1:1]]. He is the "possessor of heaven and earth" [[Genesis 14:19]], and His power is displayed in His ability to stretch out the heavens [[Isaiah 44:24]].
* **God's Dwelling and Throne:** The heavens are consistently identified as God's dwelling place and the seat of His authority. He is the God who is "in heaven" [[Ecclesiastes 5:2]], and His throne is in the heavens, from which His kingdom rules over all [[Psalms 103:19]].
* **A Revelation of Glory:** The physical heavens serve as a constant, visible testimony to the glory and handiwork of God, declaring His greatness to all of creation [[Psalms 19:1]].
* **Source of Divine Action:** Heaven is the origin point for God's interaction with the earth. Blessings like rain [[Deuteronomy 28:12]], snow [[Isaiah 55:10]], and salvation [[Psalms 57:3]] are sent from heaven.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8064}}` represents far more than the physical sky. It is a foundational concept in scripture that denotes the realm of God's throne, the expanse of His creative power, and the source from which He governs the universe. From the creation account to the Psalms, **shâmayim** serves as a powerful symbol of God's transcendence, majesty, and sovereign control over all things.
TRV