### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **sêʻâr**, represented by `{{H8181}}`, primarily means **hair**. It appears **28 times** across **27 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from a root suggesting something dishevelled or bristling, the word can describe not only **hair** itself but also a **hairy** or [idiom] **rough** quality.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H8181}}` is used in several key contexts. It is fundamental in Levitical law for determining ritual purity, where a **priest** `{{H3548}}` would examine the **hair** `{{H8181}}` to diagnose **leprosy** `{{H6883}}` [[Leviticus 13:3]]. It also signifies identity, as seen in the description of Esau being like a **hairy** `{{H8181}}` **garment** `{{H155}}` at birth [[Genesis 25:25]] and Elijah being known as a **hairy** `{{H8181}}` **man** `{{H376}}` [[2 Kings 1:8]]. The state of one's **hair** `{{H8181}}` could also express deep emotion, such as when Ezra **plucked off** `{{H4803}}` his **hair** `{{H8181}}` in astonishment and grief [[Ezra 9:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand on the significance of hair and associated actions:
* `{{H1548}}` **gâlach** (shave): This primitive root means to **shave** or make bald. It is central to the purification rites, where one who is to be cleansed must **shave** off all his **hair** `{{H8181}}` [[Leviticus 14:8]], and also to the completion of a Nazarite vow [[Numbers 6:18]].
* `{{H2206}}` **zâqân** (beard): Referring specifically to the **beard**, this word is often used alongside **sêʻâr** `{{H8181}}`. Shaving the **hair** `{{H8181}}` and the **beard** `{{H2206}}` is depicted as an act of judgment and humiliation by the **king** `{{H4428}}` of **Assyria** `{{H804}}` [[Isaiah 7:20]].
* `{{H5145}}` **nezer** (consecration, hair, separation): This term signifies something set apart, particularly the **unshorn locks** of a Nazarite. It is used in the context of a **vow** `{{H5088}}` where one lets the **hair** `{{H8181}}` grow as a sign of **separation** `{{H5145}}` to the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` [[Numbers 6:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8181}}` is evident in its various symbolic uses.
* **Sign of a Vow:** The most prominent example is the Nazarite **vow** `{{H5088}}`, where allowing the **hair** `{{H8181}}` to **grow** `{{H1431}}` is an outward sign of one's **separation** `{{H5145}}` and consecration to the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` [[Numbers 6:5]].
* **Indicator of Purity:** In the ceremonial laws, the state of one's **hair** `{{H8181}}` serves as a divine indicator of cleanness or uncleanness. Hair that **turned** `{{H2015}}` **white** `{{H3836}}` within a **plague** `{{H5061}}` was a definitive sign of **leprosy** `{{H6883}}`, requiring the priest to pronounce the person **unclean** `{{H2930}}` [[Leviticus 13:3]].
* **Symbol of Strength and Humiliation:** The story of Samson links his uncut **hair** `{{H8181}}` to his strength, and its regrowth signifies a return of divine favor [[Judges 16:22]]. Conversely, the prophetic act of shaving the **head** `{{H7218}}` and **hair** `{{H8181}}` symbolizes complete national humiliation [[Isaiah 7:20]].
* **Metaphor for Vitality and Deception:** The growth of **hair** `{{H8181}}` is used to symbolize Jerusalem's flourishing beauty and maturity [[Ezekiel 16:7]]. In a different sense, false prophets are noted for wearing a **rough** `{{H8181}}` **garment** `{{H155}}` to **deceive** `{{H3584}}` others [[Zechariah 13:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8181}}` is far more than a simple term for **hair**. It serves as a physical marker for spiritual realities, covenantal status, and personal identity. From the beautiful **hair** of the beloved in Song of Solomon [[Song of Solomon 4:1]] to the shorn head of a humbled nation [[Isaiah 7:20]], **sêʻâr** demonstrates how the human body can powerfully reflect profound truths about purity, strength, and one's relationship with God.
TRV