### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **sheçaʻ**, represented by `{{H8157}}`, refers to a **fissure** or **cleft**. It is used specifically in the context of being **clovenfooted**. Appearing **4 times** across **4 unique verses**, this term is a critical component in the biblical laws that distinguish between clean and unclean animals suitable for consumption.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H8157}}` is used exclusively within the legal codes of Leviticus and Deuteronomy to define the characteristics of a ceremonially clean land animal. The law establishes two primary requirements: the animal must chew the cud and have a completely divided hoof. A beast is considered acceptable to **eat** `{{H398}}` only if it "parteth the hoof, and is clovenfooted" [[Leviticus 11:3]]. The swine is highlighted as a key example of an unclean animal because while it has a divided hoof and is "clovenfooted" `{{H8157}}`, it does not chew the cud [[Leviticus 11:7]]. Conversely, an animal that divides the hoof but is not properly "clovenfooted" is also deemed unclean, and anyone who **toucheth** `{{H5060}}` its carcass becomes unclean [[Leviticus 11:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide the framework for understanding the laws surrounding `{{H8157}}`:
* `{{H8156}}` **shâçaʻ** (cleave, rend): As the primitive root of `{{H8157}}`, this word describes the act of splitting or tearing. It is used to describe the **cleft** itself, which must be cloven into two claws [[Deuteronomy 14:6]].
* `{{H6541}}` **parçâh** (claw or split hoof): This noun refers to the **hoof** itself, which must be parted. The law is specific that the cleft must result in two distinct **claws** [[Deuteronomy 14:6]].
* `{{H1625}}` **gêrâh** (the cud): This term represents the second, equally important criterion for an animal to be considered clean. An animal is only acceptable if it both is clovenfooted and cheweth the **cud** [[Leviticus 11:3]].
* `{{H2931}}` **ṭâmêʼ** (unclean): This adjective describes the status of any animal that fails to meet the dual criteria. The swine, for example, is declared **unclean** because it does not chew the cud, even though its hoof is divided [[Leviticus 11:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8157}}` is tied directly to the concepts of holiness and separation within the Israelite covenant.
* **Ceremonial Distinction:** The rule of the cloven hoof serves as a clear, physical marker to separate the clean from the **unclean** `{{H2931}}`. This distinction governed daily life and set Israel apart from surrounding nations, as touching an unclean animal would **defile** `{{H2930}}` a person [[Leviticus 11:26]].
* **Divine Order:** The requirement for both a cloven hoof and chewing the cud establishes a standard of completeness. Animals like the **swine** `{{H2386}}`, which meet only one condition, represent a form of incompleteness and are therefore prohibited [[Leviticus 11:7]]. This reflects a divine order that must be respected.
* **Obedience in Daily Life:** By embedding these specific rules into the act of eating, a fundamental part of life, the law made obedience to God a constant, practical discipline. The choice of which **beast** `{{H929}}` to eat was an act of covenant faithfulness [[Deuteronomy 14:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8157}}` is a precise legal term defining the physical trait of a cloven hoof. While seemingly a minor detail, it is a cornerstone of the biblical dietary laws that shaped Israel's identity. The concept of **sheçaʻ** demonstrates how God uses tangible, observable standards to teach profound spiritual lessons about holiness, separation from the profane, and the importance of complete obedience to His established order. It is a key marker distinguishing between the clean and the unclean.
TRV