### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shᵉmîynîy**, represented by `{{H8066}}`, is an ordinal number meaning **eighth**. It appears 28 times across 27 unique verses. Derived from the word for eight, its primary function is to denote the eighth position in a sequence, most frequently as the "eighth day" or "eighth month," marking significant moments in Israel's religious rituals and historical timeline.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical law and narrative, `{{H8066}}` marks a time of crucial transition or culmination. It is the designated day for the rite of circumcision [[Leviticus 12:3]]. After a seven-day period with its mother, a firstborn animal becomes acceptable as a gift to God on the **eighth** day ([[Exodus 22:30]], [[Leviticus 22:27]]). This pattern of a seven-day period followed by an event on the eighth is also central to religious festivals, where the **eighth** day is often a "solemn assembly" and a sabbath, concluding the observance ([[Leviticus 23:39]], [[Nehemiah 8:18]]). Chronologically, it is used to date events, such as the completion of the temple in the **eighth** month [[1 Kings 6:38]] or the start of a prophetic message [[Zechariah 1:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the context in which `{{H8066}}` is used:
* `{{H7637}}` **shᵉbîyʻîy** (seventh): This ordinal number often precedes the eighth, establishing a period of waiting, purification, or feasting that culminates in an action on the eighth day [[Leviticus 23:39]].
* `{{H7223}}` **riʼshôwn** (first): As the first in a sequence, this term often marks the beginning of a period that finds its special conclusion on the "eighth day," such as the sabbath on the first day of a feast corresponding to the sabbath on the eighth [[Leviticus 23:39]].
* `{{H3117}}` **yôwm** (a day): This word is almost always paired with `{{H8066}}` to form the pivotal phrase "the eighth day," which specifies the timing for vital rituals, sacrifices, and holy convocations ([[Leviticus 9:1]], [[Numbers 6:10]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8066}}` is tied to its role in divine timing and order.
* **Consecration and New Beginnings:** The "eighth day" repeatedly signifies a new status. Following a seven-day cycle of completion, it marks the start of a new state, whether it is a male child entering the covenant through circumcision [[Leviticus 12:3]] or the priests beginning their offerings on the altar [[Ezekiel 43:27]].
* **Ritual Readiness:** It is the specific point at which a person or offering is considered prepared and acceptable to God. This applies to individuals after cleansing ([[Leviticus 14:10]], [[Leviticus 15:14]]) and animals designated for sacrifice [[Leviticus 22:27]].
* **Divine Appointment:** The term is used to structure sacred duties and calendars, from the order of priestly divisions [[1 Chronicles 24:10]] to military leadership courses [[1 Chronicles 27:11]], demonstrating a divinely instituted order.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8066}}` is far more than a simple numerical designator. It is a cornerstone of biblical ritual and chronology, defining the precise moment for covenant acts, purification, and worship. It consistently illustrates a transition from a period of completion or waiting—often seven days—to a new beginning of acceptance, service, or holiness. This highlights how an ordinal number can frame critical moments of consecration and divine order in the life of Israel.