### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shᵉnâth**, represented by `{{H8153}}`, is a specific term for **sleep**. Derived from the root word for sleeping, יָשֵׁן, it is an extremely rare term in the biblical text. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, making its single usage highly significant for its interpretation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H8153}}` is in [[Psalms 132:4]], where the psalmist makes a solemn vow: "I will not give **sleep** to mine eyes, or slumber to mine eyelids." In this context, **shᵉnâth** is not just a description of a state of rest but is the object of a deliberate refusal. The word signifies a basic human necessity that is being intentionally withheld as an expression of profound dedication and urgency until a sacred promise is fulfilled.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{H8153}}` is illuminated by the words used alongside it in its only biblical context:
* `{{H5414}}` **nâthan** (to give): This verb, used with immense latitude, frames the action in [[Psalms 132:4]] as a choice. The speaker will not "give" **sleep** to his eyes, highlighting a theme of personal sacrifice and control. The verb is often used to describe God giving gifts to his people, such as a new heart [[Ezekiel 36:26]] or grace and glory [[Psalms 84:11]].
* `{{H8572}}` **tᵉnûwmâh** (slumber): Used in direct parallel with **shᵉnâth**, this word means drowsiness or **slumber**. Its inclusion creates a poetic emphasis, showing that the vow covers all forms of rest, from light dozing to deep **sleep** [[Psalms 132:4]].
* `{{H6079}}` **ʻaphʻaph** (eye-lid): Defined as an **eye-lid**, this word is paired with "slumber" just as "eyes" are paired with **sleep**. It is frequently used in poetry to signify watchfulness or deep emotion ([[Proverbs 4:25]], [[Jeremiah 9:18]]).
### Theological Significance
While appearing only once, the context of `{{H8153}}` carries significant theological weight, illustrating key principles of devotion.
* **Votive Sacrifice:** The refusal to give oneself **sleep** is a powerful symbol of votive devotion. It represents the setting aside of personal comfort and physical needs for the sake of a higher, spiritual commitment.
* **Urgency in Divine Service:** The act of forgoing **sleep** underscores the urgency and priority of the psalmist's task. It implies that fellowship with God or the fulfillment of His purposes is more critical than even the most fundamental human functions.
* **Poetic Emphasis:** The pairing of **sleep** `{{H8153}}` with slumber `{{H8572}}` demonstrates a Hebraic poetic device that intensifies meaning. The vow is absolute, covering the entire spectrum of rest, which in turn magnifies the scale of the speaker's dedication.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8153}}` **shᵉnâth** provides a focused and powerful illustration of devotion through its singular use in scripture. While a simple word for **sleep**, its context in [[Psalms 132:4]] transforms it into a symbol of unwavering commitment and sacrifice. Its meaning is sharpened by its relationship with the words for "give" `{{H5414}}`, "slumber" `{{H8572}}`, and "eyelids" `{{H6079}}`, which together paint a vivid picture of a vow where spiritual purpose completely overshadows physical need.
TRV