### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shâphar**, represented by `{{H8231}}`, is a primitive root meaning to glisten or be fair. It is used figuratively to describe something as **goodly**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, making its single usage particularly significant for understanding its meaning within a biblical context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H8231}}` is in [[Psalms 16:6]], where the psalmist declares, "The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places; yea, I have a **goodly** heritage." In this verse, **shâphar** is used as an adjective to characterize the nature of the "heritage" `{{H5159}}` received from the Lord. It signifies that the inheritance is not just acceptable, but fair, beautiful, and desirable, building on the preceding phrase that the "lines" `{{H2256}}` have fallen in "pleasant" `{{H5273}}` places.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context in [[Psalms 16:6]] illuminate the concept of a divine portion:
* `{{H2256}}` **chebel** (a rope... especially a measuring line... a district or inheritance): This word, translated as "lines," establishes the idea of a measured and defined allotment. In [[Deuteronomy 32:9]], it is used to describe Jacob as the "lot" of the Lord's inheritance.
* `{{H5159}}` **nachălâh** (something inherited... an estate, patrimony or portion): This is the noun that **shâphar** directly modifies, meaning "heritage." This term is used broadly for God's provisions, including children [[Psalms 127:3]] and even God Himself being the inheritance of the priests [[Numbers 18:20]].
* `{{H5273}}` **nâʻîym** (delightful... pleasant(-ure), sweet): Used in the same verse, this word describes the "places" of the inheritance as "pleasant." It reinforces the desirable quality conveyed by **shâphar**, as seen in [[Psalms 133:1]], which speaks of how "pleasant" it is for brethren to dwell in unity.
* `{{H5307}}` **nâphal** (to fall... divide (by lot)): Translated as "fallen," this word suggests a divinely appointed allotment, as if by casting lots. While it can describe a negative fall, as with Lucifer from heaven [[Isaiah 14:12]], here it denotes the sovereign assignment of a blessing.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8231}}` is tied to its singular use in describing God's provision.
* **The Quality of Divine Inheritance:** The word **shâphar** emphasizes that the heritage from God is not merely functional but inherently fair and beautiful. It points to the perfection of God's gifts.
* **Sovereign Allotment:** Paired with "lines" `{{H2256}}` that have "fallen" `{{H5307}}`, the concept of a "goodly" heritage is rooted in God's sovereign act of measuring and assigning a portion to His people [[Psalms 16:6]].
* **A Desirable Portion:** The heritage `{{H5159}}` from the Lord is presented as something to be cherished. This is reinforced by its description as both "pleasant" `{{H5273}}` and "goodly" `{{H8231}}`, highlighting a blessing that brings delight and satisfaction.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H8231}}` **shâphar** is one of the rarest words in the Hebrew Bible, its single use in [[Psalms 16:6]] provides a profound insight. It defines the quality of God's blessing, portraying the heritage He gives not just as a portion, but as a fair, beautiful, and glistening gift. It illustrates how a single, carefully chosen word can enrich the theological understanding of God's generous and perfect provision for His people.
TRV