### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Shên**, represented by `{{H8129}}`, is a proper noun for a **place in Palestine**. Its base definition is **crag**. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H8129}}` is in the narrative of Samuel commemorating a victory. In [[1 Samuel 7:12]], the prophet **Samuel** `{{H8050}}` took a **stone** `{{H68}}` and set it up as a memorial. The location is precisely identified as being between **Mizpeh** `{{H4709}}` and **Shen**. Samuel named the stone **Ebenezer** `{{H72}}`, explaining, "Hitherto hath the LORD `{{H3068}}` helped `{{H5826}}` us." The role of **Shen** is to serve as a geographical marker for this profound moment of remembrance.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the event associated with **Shen**:
* `{{H68}}` **'eben** (a stone): This is the physical object Samuel used to create the memorial, symbolizing a permanent testimony to God's faithfulness [[1 Samuel 7:12]].
* `{{H72}}` **'Eben hâ-ʻÊzer** (stone of the help): The name given to the monument set near **Shen**. It directly translates the purpose of the memorial—to declare God's assistance [[1 Samuel 7:12]].
* `{{H4709}}` **Mitspâh** (Mitspah, a place in Palestine): The other landmark mentioned, which, along with **Shen**, frames the location of this significant act of worship and remembrance [[1 Samuel 7:12]].
* `{{H5826}}` **ʻâzar** (to help, succour): This verb is the core of Samuel's declaration and the reason for the memorial. It defines the divine action being celebrated at the site between Mizpeh and **Shen** [[1 Samuel 7:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8129}}` is entirely derived from its association with the Ebenezer stone.
* **Landmarks of Remembrance:** **Shen**, as a place name, becomes part of a sacred map. It marks a physical location where God's intervention was acknowledged, transforming a simple place into a site of historical and spiritual importance [[1 Samuel 7:12]].
* **Testimony to God's Help:** The location of the stone near **Shen** solidifies the testimony of God's aid. The event ties a specific geography to the declaration that the Lord `{{H3068}}` is a helper `{{H5826}}` of His people.
* **The Ebenezer Principle:** By being one of the boundary markers for the "stone of the help" `{{H72}}`, **Shen** is linked to the principle of setting up memorials to commemorate God's faithfulness and provision.
### Summary
In summary, **Shên** `{{H8129}}` is a geographical name whose sole biblical reference gives it lasting significance. While a minor detail on its own, its inclusion in [[1 Samuel 7:12]] permanently connects it to the establishment of the Ebenezer stone. The location, described as a "crag," serves as a firm and high place marking a moment where Israel formally recognized God's deliverance and help.
TRV