### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shômaʻ**, represented by `{{H8089}}`, means **a report** or **fame**. It is derived from the word שָׁמַע (shâmaʻ). Appearing only **4 times** in **4 unique verses**, its usage highlights how the reputation of individuals and of God Himself is communicated.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H8089}}` is used to describe the spreading reputation of key figures. After the fall of Jericho, Joshua's{H3091} **fame** was noised throughout the country because the LORD{H3068} was with him [[Joshua 6:27]]. Similarly, Mordecai's{H4782} **fame** went out{H1980} through all the provinces{H4082} as he became great{H1419} in the king's{H4428} house{H1004} [[Esther 9:4]]. The word also refers to the report of God's power, as the Gibeonites came from a far country after they heard{H8085} the **fame** of the LORD and his deeds in Egypt{H4714} [[Joshua 9:9]]. A report can also inspire fear, as when the people heard the **fame** of their enemy, their hands{H3027} grew feeble{H7503} and anguish{H6869} took hold of them [[Jeremiah 6:24]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide deeper context for the concept of fame and reports:
* `{{H8085}}` **shâmaʻ** (to hear intelligently): As the root of `{{H8089}}`, this word is essential. Fame is something that must be **heard** ([[Jeremiah 6:24]], [[Joshua 9:9]]).
* `{{H8034}}` **shêm** (an appellation... fame... renown, report): This word is closely linked to reputation and character. The report of God's actions is tied to His **name** [[Joshua 9:9]].
* `{{H1419}}` **gâdôwl** (great): Fame is often a consequence of greatness. Mordecai's fame spread because he was **great** in the king's house [[Esther 9:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H8089}}` lies in what it reveals about the source and effect of a reputation:
* **Divine Endorsement:** The fame of a leader like Joshua{H3091} is directly attributed to the LORD{H3068} being with him, demonstrating that true renown comes from God [[Joshua 6:27]].
* **Reputation of God's Power:** The **fame** of the LORD is based on His powerful deeds, such as those He did{H6213} in Egypt{H4714}. This report of God's actions travels to far{H7350} countries{H776} and influences the actions of nations [[Joshua 9:9]].
* **Human Influence:** In the case of Mordecai{H4782}, his increasing **fame** reflects his growing influence and greatness{H1419} within the king's{H4428} government, which was pivotal for his people [[Esther 9:4]].
* **The Power of a Report:** A **fame** or report can have tangible emotional and physical effects, causing anguish{H6869} and making hands{H3027} wax feeble{H7503} upon hearing it [[Jeremiah 6:24]].
### Summary
In summary, **shômaʻ** `{{H8089}}` is a concise but potent term for **fame** or a **report**. Though used sparingly, its occurrences illustrate that a reputation is built on observable actions, whether it is the growing influence of a man like Mordecai or the mighty deeds of the LORD. The spreading of this fame can inspire both awe and fear, showing the power carried by a name or report.
TRV