### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shᵉnayim**, represented by `{{H8147}}`, is the primary term for the number **two**. It appears 769 times in 647 verses, demonstrating its wide application. As a dual form, its base definition signifies concepts like a couple, a pair, or something done twice. It is also used as an ordinal for "second" and forms the basis for other numbers, such as "twelve" or "twenty."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H8147}}` is used in a variety of fundamental contexts. It appears at the very beginning of scripture, with God making "two great lights" during creation [[Genesis 1:16]]. The word signifies partnership and companionship, as seen in the proverb "Two are better than one" [[Ecclesiastes 4:9]], and in the question, "Can two walk together, except they be agreed?" [[Amos 3:3]]. It also represents division and choice, such as when Elijah confronts the people for halting "between two opinions" [[1 Kings 18:21]], or when the LORD tells Rebekah that "Two nations" are in her womb [[Genesis 25:23]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to frame the numerical and conceptual meaning of **shᵉnayim**:
* `{{H259}}` **ʼechâd** (one): This word serves as a direct contrast, often highlighting the value of partnership over solitude. The scriptures state that "Two are better than one" [[Ecclesiastes 4:9]] and that God speaks "once, yea twice" [[Job 33:14]] to make His point.
* `{{H7969}}` **shâlôwsh** (three): As the next numeral, this word often appears alongside "two" in legal or proverbial contexts. A matter is established "at the mouth of two witnesses, or at the mouth of three witnesses" [[Deuteronomy 19:15]].
* `{{H7992}}` **shᵉlîyshîy** (third): This ordinal is used to express a fractional division in direct relation to "two." In Zechariah's prophecy, "two parts" of the land will be cut off, "but the third shall be left" [[Zechariah 13:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8147}}` is significant, establishing key principles of law, revelation, and covenant.
* **Principle of Witness:** The concept of legal confirmation is built upon the testimony of "two witnesses" [[Deuteronomy 19:15]], a standard referenced in the case against Naboth [[1 Kings 21:13]].
* **Divine Law and Presence:** The covenant was given on "two tables of testimony" [[Exodus 31:18]], written by the finger of God. God's presence was manifested between the "two cherubims" above the ark of the testimony [[Exodus 25:22]].
* **Division and Duality:** The term often illustrates a choice or a separation. God's people are accused of committing "two evils" [[Jeremiah 2:13]], and a prophecy speaks of a stone of stumbling for "both the houses of Israel" [[Isaiah 8:14]].
* **Partnership in God's Plan:** The word describes foundational pairings, like Rachel and Leah, "which two did build the house of Israel" [[Ruth 4:11]], and the "two anointed ones" who stand by the Lord [[Zechariah 4:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8147}}` extends far beyond a simple numerical count. It is a cornerstone concept in scripture, defining the basis for legal witness, divine covenants, and critical choices. It illustrates themes of partnership, duality, and confirmation, from the "two great lights" of creation to the "two tables of stone" that held the law. The word consistently frames situations that involve either a necessary pairing or a significant division.
TRV