a primitive root; to split or open, i.e. (literally, but only as denominative from שַׁעַר); compare see שׁוֹעֵר; to act as gatekeeper; (figuratively) to estimate; think.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shâʻar**, represented by `{{H8176}}`, is a primitive root used figuratively to mean **to estimate** or **think**. It is a very rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making its single appearance highly significant. Its core meaning involves the internal process of calculation that defines a person's true character.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H8176}}` is in [[Proverbs 23:7]], which states, "For as he **thinketh** in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee." In this context, the word describes a person's internal assessment. It reveals that an individual's true nature is defined by their inner thoughts, which may directly contradict their outward speech and hospitality. The verse contrasts what a person says with what they truly "estimate" internally.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its only context illuminate the conflict between inner thought and outward expression:
* `{{H5315}}` **nephesh** (soul, mind): Defined as "a breathing creature... soul... mind, desire," this is the seat of the "thinking" in [[Proverbs 23:7]]. It represents the inner self where true estimations are made, as seen in the call to serve God with a "willing mind" [[1 Chronicles 28:9]].
* `{{H559}}` **ʼâmar** (to say): This primitive root means "to say" and represents the outward communication in the verse. It stands in direct contrast to the inner "thinking" `{{H8176}}`, highlighting the potential for deception when words are not aligned with the heart.
* `{{H3820}}` **lêb** (heart): Described as the "heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect," this word is used for the part of the person that is "not with thee" [[Proverbs 23:7]]. It signifies the true, unaligned intention behind the deceptive words.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8176}}` is centered on the nature of authenticity and the inner life.
* **The Primacy of Inner Thought:** The principle in [[Proverbs 23:7]], anchored by `{{H8176}}`, establishes that a person's identity is found in their inner thoughts ("as he thinketh in his heart, so is he"), not merely their spoken words `{{H559}}`.
* **The Heart as the True Source:** The act of "thinking" `{{H8176}}` is located in the "heart" or "soul" `{{H5315}}`. Scripture repeatedly affirms the heart's centrality, warning to "Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life" [[Proverbs 4:23]].
* **Authenticity vs. Deception:** This verse serves as a caution against insincerity. The contrast between what a person "saith" `{{H559}}` and what he "thinketh" `{{H8176}}` highlights the biblical value placed on a heart that is aligned with one's actions, such as serving God with a "perfect heart" [[1 Chronicles 28:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8176}}` **shâʻar**, despite its single occurrence, provides a profound theological lesson. It is used figuratively to denote the internal act of "thinking" or "estimating" that defines a person's character. Its context in [[Proverbs 23:7]] contrasts this inner reality with outward pretense, underscoring the biblical principle that a person's true self resides in the heart (`{{H5315}}`, `{{H3820}}`), making authenticity a key spiritual concern.
TRV