### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shênîy**, represented by `{{H8145}}`, is defined as properly, double, i.e. **second**. It appears 156 times across 151 unique verses. Beyond its simple numerical function, its meaning extends to "another" when referring to one of a pair, and adverbially as "again" or a "second time," signifying repetition.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H8145}}` is used to establish sequence, duality, and repetition. It marks specific points in time, such as the "second month" when the flood began [[Genesis 7:11]] or the "second year" of a divine promise [[2 Kings 19:29]]. It distinguishes between two entities, as seen in the command to offer one lamb in the morning and the "other" lamb at even [[Exodus 29:39]]. The term also denotes a repeated action or message, as when the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah the "second time" [[Jeremiah 33:1]] or when God acts "again the second time" to recover His people [[Isaiah 11:11]]. It can also signify companionship, noting that a person without "another" is alone [[Ecclesiastes 4:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define its role in sequence and order:
* `{{H7223}}` **riʼshôwn** (first, in place, time or rank): As the direct precursor to "second," this word establishes the beginning of a sequence. It is used to identify the "first" lot that came forth [[1 Chronicles 24:7]] or the "first" chariot in a vision [[Zechariah 6:2]], creating a clear order that `shênîy` follows.
* `{{H7992}}` **shᵉlîyshîy** (third): This word continues the ordinal sequence. It often appears in passages with `shênîy` to outline a timeline, such as the prophecy that Israel would sow and reap in the "third" year after a period of rest in the "second" year [[Isaiah 37:30]].
* `{{H8147}}` **shᵉnayim** (two): This is the dual form representing the total number of a pair. While `shênîy` singles out one of that pair as "the other," `shᵉnayim` describes the pair itself, as when a man has "two" wives [[1 Samuel 1:2]].
* `{{H259}}` **ʼechâd** (one): This word is frequently paired with `shênîy` to create a contrast between two things, as in "the one" was higher than "the other" [[Daniel 8:3]] or when describing two pillars of equal height [[1 Kings 7:16]].
### Theological Significance
The conceptual weight of `{{H8145}}` is seen in its consistent application across different contexts:
* **Divine Repetition and Faithfulness:** The word often marks a repeated action by God, underscoring His persistent engagement with humanity. God appears to Solomon a "second time" [[1 Kings 9:2]], delivers His word to a prophet a "second time" [[Jeremiah 1:13]], and provides a "second time" for a covenant sign [[Joshua 5:2]].
* **Order in Law and Worship:** `{{H8145}}` is crucial for the detailed structure of the law. It establishes the "second month" for keeping the Passover [[Numbers 9:11]], the "second row" of gems on the priest's breastplate [[Exodus 28:18]], and the "second" rank in the Israelites' camp formation [[Numbers 2:16]].
* **Distinction and Duality:** As "another" or "the other," the term is fundamental to describing pairs, choices, and comparisons. This is evident in family structures [[Genesis 4:19]], sacrificial offerings [[Numbers 8:8]], and architectural details, such as the "other cherub" in the temple [[1 Kings 6:27]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8145}}` is far more than a numerical value. It is a versatile word that provides structure to biblical law, narrative, and prophecy. Whether marking a "second" year, a "second" chance, or simply "the other" in a pair, **shênîy** serves as a foundational element for conveying sequence, repetition, and the ordered nature of God's actions and commands.
TRV