### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shiphʻâh**, represented by `{{H8229}}`, defines the concept of an overwhelming quantity, translated as **copiousness; abundance, company, multitude**. It appears 6 times across 5 unique verses in the Bible. The term is used to describe a massive group or a vast amount of something, whether it be people, animals, or a force of nature.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H8229}}` conveys a sense of being overtaken by a large number. It can describe a literal group of people, as when a watchman on a tower spied the **company** of Jehu approaching [[2 Kings 9:17]]. It is also used to depict a great number of animals, such as the promised "multitude{H8229} of camels" that would cover the land in a time of blessing [[Isaiah 60:6]], or the "abundance{H8229} of his horses" whose dust would cover a city during an invasion [[Ezekiel 26:10]]. In the book of Job, the word refers to an "abundance{H8229} of waters" that can cover a person, highlighting a force of nature ([[Job 22:11]], [[Job 38:34]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illustrate the meaning of an overwhelming quantity:
* `{{H3680}}` **kâçâh** (to cover (for clothing or secrecy)): This word is frequently paired with `{{H8229}}` to describe the effect of the abundance. An "abundance{H8229} of waters{H4325}" is said to **cover** a person [[Job 22:11]], and the "multitude{H8229} of camels" will **cover** the land [[Isaiah 60:6]].
* `{{H4325}}` **mayim** (water): This is twice the subject of the "abundance." In the context of Job, God's power over creation is demonstrated by His command over an "abundance{H8229} of **waters**" [[Job 38:34]].
* `{{H6822}}` **tsâphâh** ((keep the) watch(-man)): This word highlights the perspective of one observing the arrival of an `{{H8229}}` "company." A **watchman** is the one who first identifies the approaching "company{H8229} of Jehu" [[2 Kings 9:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8229}}` is tied to its depiction of overwhelming force, which can be an instrument of either blessing or judgment.
* **Sign of Future Blessing:** In prophecy, an abundance can signify divine favor and restoration. The "multitude{H8229} of camels" represents the wealth of nations coming to praise God [[Isaiah 60:6]].
* **Expression of Divine Power:** God's sovereignty is shown through his control over immense natural forces. He challenges Job by asking if he can command the clouds to deliver an "abundance{H8229} of waters" [[Job 38:34]].
* **Instrument of Judgment:** An abundance can also represent a force used for divine judgment. An invading army's "abundance{H8229} of his horses{H5483}" is so great that their dust covers the city of Tyre as it is being judged [[Ezekiel 26:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8229}}` is more than a simple descriptor of a large number. It signifies a quantity so immense that it covers, overwhelms, and transforms its surroundings. Whether it is a "multitude" of camels bringing tribute, a "company" of soldiers enacting judgment, or an "abundance" of water demonstrating God's power, **shiphʻâh** illustrates a force that cannot be ignored.
TRV