The Hebrew word shaʻar, represented by H8180, translates as a measure or (hundred-) fold. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible. Its singular use provides a powerful and focused illustration of immense, divinely-given increase.
The sole appearance of H8180 is in Genesis 26:12, where it quantifies a miraculous harvest. The verse states that after Isaac H3327 sowed H2232 in the land H776, he "received H4672 in the same year H8141 an hundredfold H3967{H8180}". This exceptional return is not attributed to agricultural skill alone but is immediately explained by the concluding phrase: "and the LORD H3068 blessed H1288 him." Here, shaʻar serves to measure the tangible result of God's favor.
The context of H8180 is enriched by several related Hebrew words found in its only verse of use:
- H2232 zâraʻ (to sow): This is the foundational action that leads to the hundredfold return. Its definition is "to sow; figuratively, to disseminate, plant, fructify," connecting a physical act to a result of great increase Genesis 26:12.
- H3967 mêʼâh (a hundred): Used directly with H8180, this word specifies the magnitude of the harvest. It signifies a complete and large number, often used to denote a significant quantity Genesis 26:12.
- H1288 bârak (to bless): This word identifies the source of the abundance. Isaac's harvest was a direct result of the LORD's blessing, which is defined as a benefit bestowed upon man (Genesis 26:12, Genesis 12:2).
- H4672 mâtsâʼ (to... find or acquire): This describes Isaac's reception of the harvest. He "received" or found this incredible return, highlighting that it was something attained as a result of the LORD's provision Genesis 26:12.
The theological significance of H8180 is tied directly to the narrative of God's covenant faithfulness.
- Supernatural Abundance: The term provides a concrete "measure" of God's blessing. The hundredfold return demonstrates that when the LORD H3068 blesses H1288 an endeavor, the result far exceeds natural expectations Genesis 26:12.
- The Fruit of Blessing: The use of shaʻar connects the act of sowing H2232 to the consequence of divine blessing. It illustrates that obedience and work, when coupled with God's favor, yield an extraordinary outcome.
- Tangible Evidence of God's Favor: The hundredfold harvest serves as visible proof of the LORD's presence with Isaac H3327. It is a tangible sign that fulfills God's promises to bless his people (Genesis 12:2, Genesis 26:12).
In summary, while H8180 shaʻar is one of the rarest words in the biblical text, its single appearance in Genesis 26:12 is profoundly impactful. It functions as a specific measure to articulate the concept of supernatural abundance that comes directly from the blessing of the LORD. The word powerfully links a human act of sowing with a divine multiplication, showcasing a hundredfold return as the tangible evidence of God's favor upon Isaac.
TRV