### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shimmur**, represented by `{{H8107}}`, refers to **an observance**, or idiomatically, something to be **much observed**. It appears only 2 times, both within a single unique verse, making its specific context highly significant. The term denotes a dedicated night of watching and remembrance, commanded by God in response to a foundational act of deliverance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H8107}}` is in [[Exodus 12:42]], which describes the Passover night. The verse states, "It is a night to be **much observed** unto the LORD for bringing them out from the land of Egypt." This establishes the event not merely as a historical moment but as a sacred time of active remembrance. The text repeats the concept for emphasis, declaring, "this is that night of the LORD to be **observed** of all the children of Israel in their generations." The observance is directly linked to God's powerful act of delivering Israel from Egypt.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context clarify the meaning of this special observance:
* `{{H3915}}` **layil** (night): This specifies the timing of the observance. The event to be remembered is a "night" [[Exodus 12:42]], setting it apart as a specific period of watchfulness and reflection, similar to meditating on God's law "day and night" [[Psalms 1:2]].
* `{{H3318}}` **yâtsâʼ** (to go (causatively, bring) out): This defines the reason for the observance. It commemorates God "bringing them out" [[Exodus 12:42]] of Egypt, a theme of divine action seen elsewhere when God promises to "bring them out from the people" [[Ezekiel 34:13]].
* `{{H1755}}` **dôwr** (generation): This highlights the perpetual nature of the command. The observance is for all "generations" [[Exodus 12:42]], establishing an enduring practice rooted in God's covenant that extends through "a thousand generations" [[Deuteronomy 7:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8107}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful application.
* **A Night of Deliverance:** The observance is centered on a singular, mighty act of God: His deliverance of Israel from the land of Egypt `{{H4714}}`. The night is to be "much observed" specifically because of what the LORD `{{H3068}}` did for His people [[Exodus 12:42]].
* **Perpetual Memorial:** The command for this observance is given to "all the children of Israel in their generations" [[Exodus 12:42]], making it a permanent memorial. It establishes a pattern of looking back to God's past faithfulness to inspire present and future worship, reflecting His promise to establish His covenant for "everlasting" generations [[Genesis 17:7]].
* **Observance Unto the Lord:** The act is explicitly directed "unto the LORD" `{{H3068}}`. It is not simply a cultural or historical remembrance but a sacred duty and act of worship, acknowledging God's direct intervention and redemptive power.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8107}}` is a highly specific term that encapsulates a foundational biblical principle. While used only in one verse, it defines the Passover night as a sacred and perpetual observance. It transforms a historical event into an ongoing act of worship, reminding all future generations of the LORD's power to deliver His people and commanding them to remember it with focused reverence.
TRV