### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shânâʼ**, represented by `{{H8132}}`, is a primitive root meaning to **alter** or **change**. It appears only **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, yet each instance describes a significant and fundamental transformation. The word is applied to personal appearance, physical objects, and items of immense value.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H8132}}` conveys different kinds of alteration. In Lamentations, it is used to mourn a loss of quality, describing how the most **fine gold** `{{H3800}}` has **changed** [[Lamentations 4:1]], signifying corruption and a fall from a state of glory. Conversely, it can describe a positive change in status, as when King Jehoiachin had his **prison** `{{H3608}}` garments **changed** `{{H8132}}`, symbolizing his release and restoration to favor [[2 Kings 25:29]]. It is also used to describe how a man's **wisdom** `{{H2451}}` can cause the **boldness** `{{H5797}}` of his **face** `{{H6440}}` to be **changed** [[Ecclesiastes 8:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide deeper context for the types of change described:
* `{{H2451}}` **chokmâh** (wisdom): Defined as "wisdom (in a good sense)," this is the catalyst for the positive personal transformation described in [[Ecclesiastes 8:1]], where it alters a man's countenance.
* `{{H899}}` **beged** (garment): Meaning "a covering, i.e. clothing," the changing of these items in [[2 Kings 25:29]] is the external sign of a profound change in a person's life and status.
* `{{H3800}}` **kethem** (fine gold): This term for "gold (pure as originally mined)" is the object that is negatively changed in [[Lamentations 4:1]], highlighting a theme of degradation and the loss of what was once precious and sacred.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8132}}` is demonstrated through its varied applications.
* **Transformation by Wisdom:** The word shows that inner qualities like **wisdom** `{{H2451}}` can produce an external, visible **change** `{{H8132}}`, altering a person's very face and demeanor [[Ecclesiastes 8:1]].
* **Restoration and Grace:** A change in status from a prisoner to an honored guest is marked by the changing of garments, illustrating a complete reversal of circumstance initiated by a king's favor [[2 Kings 25:29]].
* **Corruption of the Holy:** The word is used to express profound grief over the degradation of sacred things. The lament that **fine gold** `{{H3800}}` and the **stones** `{{H68}}` of the **sanctuary** `{{H6944}}` have been **changed** speaks to a loss of holiness and divine glory [[Lamentations 4:1]].
### Summary
In summary, though rare, `{{H8132}}` is a potent word that signifies a fundamental alteration. It is versatile enough to describe a positive change brought by wisdom, a circumstantial change from imprisonment to freedom, and a tragic change representing the corruption of what was once pure. It effectively captures the biblical concept that people, circumstances, and even sacred objects are subject to profound and meaningful change.
TRV