### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shᵉphôwṭ**, represented by `{{H8196}}`, denotes a **judicial sentence** that implies **punishment** or **judgment**. Derived from the word for judging (שָׁפַט), it appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, yet it carries significant weight in contexts of divine retribution and consequences. It refers to a specific, pronounced sentence rather than the act of judging itself.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{H8196}}` is presented as a severe form of punishment. In [[2 Chronicles 20:9]], it is listed alongside other catastrophic events, where the people cry out for deliverance from "**sword**, **judgment**, or **pestilence**, or **famine**." This places it among the most dire calamities that can befall a nation. The second instance, in [[Ezekiel 23:10]], describes the aftermath of such a sentence, stating that "they had executed **judgment** upon her," a process that included slaying her with the **sword** and taking her children, leaving her with a notorious reputation.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the nature and context of the **judgment** described by `{{H8196}}`:
* `{{H2719}}` **chereb** (sword): This word, meaning "a cutting instrument (from its destructive effect)," appears in both verses where `{{H8196}}` is found. It serves as a primary tool for executing the punishment that **judgment** entails ([[Ezekiel 23:10]], [[2 Chronicles 20:9]]).
* `{{H1698}}` **deber** (pestilence): Defined as "a pestilence; murrain, pestilence, plague," this term is listed alongside **judgment** as a potential divine punishment, highlighting the grave and widespread nature of such sentences [[2 Chronicles 20:9]].
* `{{H6213}}` **ʻâsâh** (to do or make): While having a broad meaning, this verb is translated as "executed" in the context of judgment. It signifies that a judicial sentence is not merely a verdict but an action that is actively carried out and brought to pass [[Ezekiel 23:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H8196}}` lies in its specific focus on divine sentencing and its consequences.
* **A Form of Calamity:** **Judgment** is positioned as a specific category of **evil** `{{H7451}}` that God can bring upon people, alongside other punishments like the **sword** `{{H2719}}` and **famine** `{{H7458}}` [[2 Chronicles 20:9]].
* **Active Execution:** The word emphasizes that a divine sentence is not an abstract idea but a concrete action that is "executed" (`ʻâsâh` - `{{H6213}}`). This act brings about definitive and often destructive results, as seen in the slaying by the sword [[Ezekiel 23:10]].
* **Judicial Punishment:** `{{H8196}}` specifically frames punishment within a judicial context. It is not random suffering but the result of a sentence passed down, implying a preceding cause or transgression that warrants such a severe outcome.
### Summary
In summary, **shᵉphôwṭ** `{{H8196}}` provides a concise and potent term for a judicial sentence enacted as punishment. Though rare, its usage clearly associates it with the most severe forms of divine retribution, such as the sword, pestilence, and famine. It underscores the biblical theme that judgment is not just a verdict but a decisive and consequential action executed in response to evil.
TRV