### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shepher**, represented by `{{H8233}}`, means **beauty** or, idiomatically, **goodly**. It is an exceedingly rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire biblical text. Its sole usage defines a specific quality associated with a patriarchal blessing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H8233}}` is found in Jacob's prophecy over his son Naphtali. In this blessing, Naphtali is likened to a "hind let loose" who "giveth **goodly** words" [[Genesis 49:21]]. Here, **shepher** is used to describe the nature of the words or messages that would characterize Naphtali and his descendants, imbuing them with a sense of beauty, grace, and pleasantness. The context is one of patriarchal pronouncement, setting forth the destiny of one of the twelve tribes of Israel.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context in [[Genesis 49:21]] provide a fuller picture:
* `{{H5321}}` **Naphtâlîy** (Naphtali): This is the name of the son of Jacob who is the subject of the blessing. His name means "my wrestling," given by Rachel after she "prevailed" against her sister [[Genesis 30:8]]. The tribe of Naphtali would become a significant part of Israel [[Judges 4:6]].
* `{{H7971}}` **shâlach** (send away, for, or out): Used to describe Naphtali as a hind "let loose," this root word implies being sent forth or set free. It is frequently used for God sending His word or His prophets ([[Isaiah 55:11]], [[Jeremiah 1:9]]).
* `{{H5414}}` **nâthan** (to give): This verb, used for "he giveth goodly words," is a broad term for giving or putting something in place. It is often used to describe God bestowing gifts upon His people, such as a new heart [[Ezekiel 36:26]] or a son [[Isaiah 9:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8233}}` is derived entirely from its singular, powerful context.
* **Prophetic Destiny:** The use of **shepher** occurs within a foundational prophecy, signifying that the ability to produce "goodly words" is part of the divinely-ordained character and destiny of the tribe of Naphtali.
* **The Beauty of Speech:** The word places a high value on eloquent and beautiful communication. It suggests that words can be a source of grace and pleasantness, a quality worthy of being included in a patriarchal blessing.
* **A Gifted Eloquence:** The phrase "he giveth" (nâthan, `{{H5414}}`) frames this beautiful speech not as a mere human skill but as a bestowed gift. Just as God is the one who gives peace, a new heart, or a son, the capacity for "goodly words" is presented as a blessing given to Naphtali [[Genesis 49:21]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8233}}` is a highly specific term whose meaning is entirely contained within one verse. While its usage is limited, its context in [[Genesis 49:21]] gives it significance, defining the "goodly words" of Naphtali as a key feature of his blessed inheritance. The word illustrates how a singular attribute—beautiful and graceful speech—can be highlighted as a defining, prophetic characteristic for one of the tribes of Israel.
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