### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shiphlâh**, represented by `{{H8218}}`, is a specific term for a **depression; low place**. It appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible. As the feminine form of שֶׁפֶל, its meaning is tied to the concept of a sunken or low area.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{H8218}}` is used to describe the fate of a city under judgment. The prophet declares that when hail{H1258} comes down{H3381} on the forest{H3293}, "the city{H5892} shall be low{H8213} in a **low place**{H8218}" [[Isaiah 32:19]]. This positions the word within a powerful image of debasement and collapse, where a fortified place is brought to a state of utter depression.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words found in the same context illuminate the meaning of `{{H8218}}`:
* `{{H8213}}` **shâphêl** (to depress or sink): This is the primitive root from which **shiphlâh** is derived. It carries the active sense of humbling or bringing something down, as seen in the statement that "A man's pride shall bring him low" [[Proverbs 29:23]].
* `{{H3381}}` **yârad** (to descend): This verb describes the action of going downwards and is used in the same verse to depict hail coming down [[Isaiah 32:19]]. It reinforces the theme of descent, whether it is God coming down to deliver [[Exodus 3:8]] or a nation going down to Egypt for help [[Isaiah 31:1]].
* `{{H5892}}` **ʻîyr** (a city): This word represents the subject that is brought to a "low place." A city is typically a symbol of strength and security, but in this context, it is humbled, illustrating that even fortified places are subject to being brought low [[Isaiah 32:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8218}}` is demonstrated in its singular, powerful context.
* **Divine Judgment:** The use of **shiphlâh** in [[Isaiah 32:19]] is part of a prophetic announcement of judgment. The "low place" symbolizes the result of this judgment, where human constructions like a city{H5892} and natural powers like a forest{H3293} are brought down by divine action.
* **Humbling of the Proud:** The root word, `{{H8213}}` **shâphêl**, is repeatedly used to convey the theme that God humbles the proud. The Bible states, "The lofty looks of man shall be humbled" [[Isaiah 2:11]], and that God "putteth down one, and setteth up another" [[Psalms 75:7]]. The "low place" is the destination for human haughtiness.
* **God's Sovereignty:** The context of `{{H8218}}` involves God's power over both nature and human society. This points to His absolute authority to bring low what is high, whether it is a "high tree" or a proud nation [[Ezekiel 17:24]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8218}}` is more than just a topographical descriptor for a **depression**. Though it appears only once, its context within [[Isaiah 32:19]], supported by its primitive root `{{H8213}}`, frames it as a powerful symbol of abasement. It illustrates a core theological principle: God's power to bring down the proud, debasing the mighty city to a **low place** and demonstrating His ultimate authority.
TRV