### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]]).
### Summary
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