### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shâmêm**, represented by `{{H8076}}`, describes a state of being **ruined; desolate**. Derived from the root `{{H8074}}`, this specific term is used infrequently, appearing only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, yet it conveys a potent image of devastation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H8076}}` is applied to significant entities that have been ruined. Jeremiah uses the term to describe the condition of the land, stating, "They have made it **desolate**" [[Jeremiah 12:11]]. In the book of Daniel, the word is used in a prayer of supplication concerning the holy sanctuary, which is described as being **desolate** [[Daniel 9:17]]. In both cases, the word marks a state of ruin that affects the nation of Israel's land and its place of worship.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a deeper context for the concept of desolation:
* `{{H8074}}` **shâmêm**: The primitive root from which `{{H8076}}` is derived, it means to devastate, stupefy, or make desolate. It can also mean to be amazed or astonished, as seen when many were **astonied** at the marred visage of the Lord's servant [[Isaiah 52:14]].
* `{{H8077}}` **shᵉmâmâh**: The feminine form, meaning devastation or astonishment. It is used alongside `{{H8076}}` in Jeremiah, where the land, being desolate, mourns and is in a state of **desolation** [[Jeremiah 12:11]].
* `{{H56}}` **ʼâbal**: Meaning to bewail, lament, or mourn. This word is directly connected to the consequence of desolation, as the desolate land **mourneth** [[Jeremiah 12:11]].
* `{{H4720}}` **miqdâsh**: This word for a holy place or **sanctuary** is the subject of the desolation in Daniel's prayer [[Daniel 9:17]]. God commanded Israel to build a sanctuary so that He might dwell among them [[Exodus 25:8]], making its desolation a profound loss.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8076}}` is tied to the consequences of sin and the hope of restoration.
* **A Consequence of Negligence:** The desolation of the land is explicitly linked to the people's spiritual apathy, "because no man layeth it to heart" [[Jeremiah 12:11]]. Likewise, the sanctuary was defiled by detestable things and abominations [[Ezekiel 5:11]], leading to judgment.
* **Ruin of Sacred Spaces:** The term is applied not only to the **land** `{{H776}}` but also specifically to the **sanctuary** `{{H4720}}`. The desolation of the place where God chose to dwell highlights the severity of the nation's spiritual state.
* **A Catalyst for Prayer:** The state of desolation is not an endpoint but a reason for supplication. Daniel's prayer is a direct response to seeing the sanctuary **desolate**, pleading for God to "cause thy face to shine" upon it once more [[Daniel 9:17]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8076}}` is a precise term that signifies a state of being **ruined** and **desolate**. Though used only twice, its application to both the land of Israel and God's sanctuary gives it significant weight. It functions as an indicator of divine judgment for sin and neglect, and its presence in scripture serves as the basis for heartfelt mourning and prayers for divine restoration. It powerfully illustrates how physical ruin reflects a deeper spiritual crisis.
TRV