### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word שַׁעַר (shaʻar, `{{H8180}}`) is a rare noun derived from the verb שָׁעַר (shaʻar, `{{H8176}}`), which means "to estimate, calculate, or reckon." This etymological root is crucial for understanding its core meaning. Unlike the more common homonym שַׁעַר (shaʻar, `{{H8179}}`), which means "gate," `{{H8180}}` specifically denotes a "measure" or "section," and by extension, a "fold" in the sense of multiplication, as in "hundredfold." Its semantic range is thus tightly bound to the concept of quantitative assessment, proportion, and particularly, extraordinary increase or yield.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word שַׁעַר (shaʻar, `{{H8180}}`) appears only once in the entire Hebrew Bible, making its sole occurrence exceptionally significant for its interpretation.
* **[[Genesis 26:12]]**: "Then Isaac sowed in that land and reaped in the same year a hundredfold (מֵאָה שְׁעָרִים); and the Lord blessed him."
* In this pivotal verse, the phrase מֵאָה שְׁעָרִים (me'ah sh'arim) literally translates to "a hundred measures" or "a hundred folds." The context is Isaac's agricultural endeavor during a time of famine in Gerar. Despite the challenging conditions, God's blessing upon Isaac's labor resulted in an unprecedented harvest. This was not merely a good yield but an extraordinary, divinely empowered multiplication, far exceeding natural expectations. The "hundredfold" serves as a hyperbolic expression of immense abundance and supernatural favor, directly attributed to the Lord's blessing.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for שַׁעַר (shaʻar, `{{H8180}}`) is its verbal root שָׁעַר (shaʻar, `{{H8176}}`), "to estimate, reckon, or calculate." This connection underscores the quantitative aspect of H8180 as a "measure" or "proportion." While sharing the same consonantal root and pronunciation, it is distinct from שַׁעַר (shaʻar, `{{H8179}}`), meaning "gate," though some scholars explore potential ancient conceptual links between "sections" (as in a measure) and "divisions" (as in a gate).
Conceptually, H8180 is intimately related to divine blessing (בָּרַךְ, barakh, `{{H1288}}`), abundance, fruitfulness, and supernatural provision. Other words that convey similar notions of increase include רָבָה (rabah, `{{H7235}}`, to be great, numerous, multiply) and פָּרָה (parah, `{{H6509}}`, to be fruitful). The "hundredfold" concept also finds echoes in the New Testament parables, particularly the Parable of the Sower ([[Matthew 13:8]], [[Mark 4:8]], [[Luke 8:8]]), where it signifies abundant spiritual yield or reward, though without a direct linguistic link to H8180.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of שַׁעַר (shaʻar, `{{H8180}}`) in [[Genesis 26:12]] carries profound theological weight. It serves as a powerful testament to God's covenant faithfulness and His ability to provide supernaturally for His people. In the narrative of Isaac, who walks in the footsteps of Abraham, the "hundredfold" harvest is a tangible manifestation of the divine promise to bless Abraham's descendants. This blessing is not contingent on human effort alone or favorable natural conditions, but on God's sovereign will and power.
The extraordinary yield in a land experiencing famine highlights God's transcendence over natural limitations and His active involvement in the lives of His chosen ones. It foreshadows the prosperity and fruitfulness promised to the nation of Israel as part of the Abrahamic covenant. The "hundredfold" becomes an archetype of divine favor, signifying not just sufficiency but overflowing abundance, demonstrating God's desire to bless beyond measure those who trust in Him. It underscores the principle that true prosperity flows from divine blessing, not merely human toil.
### Summary
The Hebrew word שַׁעַר (shaʻar, `{{H8180}}`), occurring uniquely in [[Genesis 26:12]], denotes a "measure" or "fold," specifically in the context of an extraordinary "hundredfold" yield. Derived from the verb שָׁעַר (to estimate or reckon, `{{H8176}}`), it emphasizes a quantitative increase. Its sole appearance highlights God's supernatural blessing on Isaac's agricultural endeavors, signifying divine favor and abundant provision even amidst famine. Theologically, it stands as a powerful symbol of God's covenant faithfulness, His ability to transcend natural limitations, and His desire to bestow overflowing prosperity upon those He blesses.
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