### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shên**, represented by `{{H8127}}`, primarily means **tooth**. It appears 55 times across 48 unique verses in the Bible. Based on the concept of sharpness, its meaning extends beyond the literal to include **ivory**, a **cliff** or **crag**, and even the **forefront** of a rock formation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In Scripture, `{{H8127}}` is used in several key contexts. It establishes a principle of justice in the law, as seen in the phrase "**tooth** for **tooth**" [[Exodus 21:24]]. As **ivory**, it denotes wealth and luxury, such as in the construction of a "great throne of **ivory**" [[1 Kings 10:18]]. The term is also used geographically to describe a "**sharp** rock" or cliff [[1 Samuel 14:4]]. Figuratively, it describes aggression, where a wicked generation's **teeth** are depicted "as swords" [[Proverbs 30:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the literal and figurative meanings of **shên**:
* `{{H2786}}` **châraq** (to grate the teeth; gnash): This term describes an action of rage or anguish often performed with the teeth. The wicked man "shall **gnash** with his **teeth**, and melt away" in frustration [[Psalms 112:10]].
* `{{H4973}}` **mᵉthallᵉʻâh** (a biter, i.e. a tooth; cheek (jaw) tooth, jaw): This refers to the jaw teeth or molars. An invading nation is described as having the **teeth** of a lion and the **cheek teeth** of a great lion [[Joel 1:6]].
* `{{H5391}}` **nâshak** (to strike with a sting (as a serpent); figuratively, to oppress with interest on a loan; bite, lend upon usury): This word signifies the act of biting. It is used to describe false prophets "that **bite** with their **teeth**, and cry, Peace" [[Micah 3:5]].
* `{{H2964}}` **ṭereph** (something torn, i.e. a fragment, e.g. a fresh leaf, prey, food; leaf, meat, prey, spoil): This word often refers to the prey caught by teeth. The psalmist blesses God, "who hath not given us as a **prey** to their **teeth**" [[Psalms 124:6]].
### Theological Significance
The figurative and theological weight of `{{H8127}}` is significant. It is often used to represent destructive power, divine action, and human emotion.
* **Weaponry and Aggression:** The teeth of the wicked are frequently described as weapons. They are compared to spears, arrows, and swords, symbolizing their power to inflict harm and devour the needy ([[Psalms 57:4]], [[Proverbs 30:14]]).
* **Divine Judgment:** God's judgment is sometimes expressed through this term. He promises to send "the **teeth** of beasts" upon a disobedient people [[Deuteronomy 32:24]] and breaks the teeth of the ungodly to render them powerless [[Psalms 3:7]]. An absence of food, described as "cleanness of **teeth**," is a sign of famine sent by God [[Amos 4:6]].
* **Human Suffering and Anguish:** The idiom "escaped with the skin of my **teeth**" expresses a narrow escape from calamity [[Job 19:20]]. The proverb about eating sour grapes causing children's **teeth** to be "set on edge" speaks to transferred consequences and discomfort [[Ezekiel 18:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8127}}` is far more than a simple anatomical term. It serves as a powerful symbol across Scripture, ranging from the literal tooth in legal codes and the luxurious **ivory** in royal courts to the figurative **crag** of a cliff. Metaphorically, it embodies aggression, divine judgment, and deep human suffering, illustrating how a common word can carry profound legal, material, and theological significance.