### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shᵉnîynâh**, represented by `{{H8148}}`, means **byword** or **taunt**. Derived from a root meaning "something pointed," it denotes a sharp, cutting gibe. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses**, consistently referring to the scorn and mockery faced as a consequence of divine judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H8148}}` is used exclusively within the context of covenant curses and warnings to Israel. It describes the nation's fate should they disobey God, becoming an object of derision among all other peoples. For instance, God warns that if Israel turns away, they will become "a proverb and a **byword** among all people" ([[1 Kings 9:7]]; [[2 Chronicles 7:20]]). This term is part of a larger vocabulary of judgment, appearing alongside "astonishment" and "proverb" [[Deuteronomy 28:37]] as well as "reproach," "proverb," and "curse" [[Jeremiah 24:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words appear alongside `{{H8148}}`, collectively painting a picture of national disgrace:
* `{{H4912}}` **mâshâl** (byword, like, parable, proverb): This term for a pithy or metaphorical saying is used with `{{H8148}}` in all its occurrences, indicating that Israel would become a cautionary tale [[Jeremiah 24:9]].
* `{{H2781}}` **cherpâh** (rebuke, reproach(-fully), shame): Denoting disgrace and contumely, this word is linked to `{{H8148}}` to describe the shame Israel would suffer in exile [[Jeremiah 24:9]].
* `{{H8047}}` **shammâh** (astonishment, desolate(-ion), waste): This word signifies ruin and the consternation it causes. It is paired with `{{H8148}}` to describe the shocking state of the disobedient nation [[Deuteronomy 28:37]].
* `{{H7045}}` **qᵉlâlâh** (curse): Signifying vilification, this term appears in a list of punishments that includes becoming a taunt [[Jeremiah 24:9]], making the consequence of disobedience explicit.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8148}}` is centered on the consequences of covenant unfaithfulness.
* **Sign of Divine Judgment:** Becoming a **byword** or **taunt** is presented as a direct result of God's judgment upon His people for their sin. It is a punishment that involves public humiliation among the nations [[Deuteronomy 28:37]].
* **Warning Against Idolatry:** The word is used in warnings tied to the hallowed house of God. If Israel abandons the Lord, the nation will be made into a **byword** as an example to all ([[1 Kings 9:7]]; [[2 Chronicles 7:20]]).
* **Collective National Shame:** The consequence described by `{{H8148}}` is not just individual but national. The entire people of Israel would be subject to scorn, becoming a proverb and a taunt "in all places" where they are driven [[Jeremiah 24:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8148}}` is a potent but infrequent term for a **byword** or **taunt**. Its meaning, derived from "something pointed," aptly describes the sharp sting of public mockery. Each of its four appearances is within the solemn context of covenant curses, serving as a grave warning to Israel about the national shame and disgrace that would result from abandoning God. It is a key term for understanding the severity of divine judgment and the dishonor that follows disobedience.
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