### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shᵉmâmâh**, represented by `{{H8077}}`, denotes **devastation** and **desolation**. It appears **58 times** across **54 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from a root meaning devastation, it figuratively describes a state of astonishment and is often used to portray a land, city, or heritage laid to waste.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H8077}}` is primarily used in the context of divine judgment. Prophets frequently employ the term to describe the consequences of sin and disobedience. For example, Jeremiah prophesies that the cities of Judah will become a **desolation** without an inhabitant as a result of their rebellion [[Jeremiah 34:22]]. Similarly, Isaiah depicts a land where cities are burned with fire and the country is **desolate**, overthrown by strangers [[Isaiah 1:7]]. This state of ruin is not limited to Israel; foreign nations such as Egypt, Edom [[Joel 3:19]], Babylon [[Jeremiah 25:12]], and Moab [[Zephaniah 2:9]] are also destined for **desolation** because of their iniquity and violence.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Hebrew words enhance the concept of desolation:
* `{{H8076}}` **shâmêm** (ruined; desolate): This is the root word from which **shᵉmâmâh** is formed. It describes the state of being desolate, as when the land mourns because it is **desolate** [[Jeremiah 12:11]].
* `{{H4923}}` **mᵉshammâh** (a waste or amazement; astonishment, desolate): Often used alongside `{{H8077}}` to intensify the meaning, as in the phrase "most **desolate**" [[Ezekiel 33:28]].
* `{{H8047}}` **shammâh** (ruin; by implication, consternation; astonishment, desolate(-ion), waste): This term connects the physical ruin with the emotional shock it causes, as seen in the "cup of astonishment and **desolation**" [[Ezekiel 23:33]].
* `{{H2723}}` **chorbâh** (a desolation; decayed place, waste): This word frequently appears with **shᵉmâmâh** to emphasize a state of decay and ruin, describing cities that are **wasted** and **desolate** [[Jeremiah 44:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8077}}` is significant, illustrating key principles of God's interaction with humanity.
* **The Consequence of Sin:** Desolation is presented as the direct fruit of rebellion, violence, and turning away from God. The land becomes **desolate** "because of them that dwell therein, for the fruit of their doings" [[Micah 7:13]] and "because of all their abominations" [[Ezekiel 33:29]].
* **Divine Judgment:** The word is a powerful descriptor of God's judgment upon nations. The LORD declares he will make lands like Egypt [[Ezekiel 29:9]] and the heritage of Esau [[Malachi 1:3]] a **waste** and a **desolation**, demonstrating His sovereignty and wrath against evil.
* **A Precursor to Restoration:** While often a term of judgment, **desolation** is not always the final state. The Lord promises that the land once termed **Desolate** `{{H8077}}` will be called Hephzibah ("my delight is in her") and Beulah ("married") [[Isaiah 62:4]], indicating that restoration and divine favor can follow a period of judgment.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8077}}` **shᵉmâmâh** is a profound term that encapsulates more than mere physical ruin. It serves as a stark theological symbol of the consequences of sin, the certainty of divine judgment against unrighteousness, and the desolation from which God can bring about a promised restoration. The word conveys a complete state of devastation that affects lands, cities, and people, leaving them without inhabitants and in a state of astonishment.
TRV