(Aramaic) corresponding to שָׁמֵם; {to stun (or intransitively, grow numb), i.e. devastate or (figuratively) stupefy (both usually in a passive sense)}; be astonied.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **shᵉmam**, represented by `{{H8075}}`, corresponds to a term meaning to be stunned, grow numb, or be devastated. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The word's base definition is to be {astonied}, describing a state of being stupefied, often in a passive sense.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical use of `{{H8075}}` occurs in a moment of great tension. After hearing King Nebuchadnezzar's troubling dream, the prophet Daniel is so affected by its meaning that he "was **astonied** for one hour, and his thoughts troubled him" [[Daniel 4:19]]. Daniel's stunned silence underscores the severity of the coming judgment he must reveal to the king, showing a profound and immobilizing reaction to divine revelation.
### Related Words & Concepts
Two closely related Aramaic words in the immediate context help clarify the meaning of `{{H8075}}`:
* `{{H7476}}` **raʻyôwn** (thought): This word refers to a mental conception or cogitation. In [[Daniel 4:19]], it is Daniel's "thoughts" that trouble him, directly causing the state of being "astonied" `{{H8075}}`. The term frequently describes troubling thoughts arising from divine encounters [[Daniel 7:28]].
* `{{H927}}` **bᵉhal** (trouble): Defined as to terrify or trouble, this word describes the effect of Daniel's thoughts. The verse states his thoughts "troubled" `{{H927}}` him, linking the internal concept with the external state of being stunned. It is also used to describe the king being troubled by visions [[Daniel 5:6]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative weight of `{{H8075}}` is significant despite its rarity.
* **The Impact of Divine Truth:** The word powerfully illustrates the overwhelming effect that divine truth can have on a person. Daniel, a man of God, is not merely concerned; he is stupefied and rendered speechless by the gravity of the message he must deliver.
* **A Prophet's Distress:** Daniel’s reaction in [[Daniel 4:19]] is a key character moment. His being "astonied" for a full hour shows his deep distress and perhaps empathy for the king who is about to receive a terrible prophecy.
* **Stunned Silence:** The term highlights a response that goes beyond simple fear or surprise. It depicts a state of being mentally and emotionally paralyzed, a temporary numbness that precedes the difficult task of speaking a hard truth.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8075}}` is a precise and impactful word. Though used only once, it provides a vivid portrait of a man overwhelmed by the weight of prophetic knowledge. Its appearance in [[Daniel 4:19]], alongside words for "thoughts" and "trouble," captures a moment of profound psychological turmoil, demonstrating how a divine message can stun a person into a state of silent astonishment before it can be spoken.