### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shiphrâh**, represented by `{{H8235}}`, conveys the concept of **brightness** or to **garnish**. It is derived from the root word שָׁפַר. This specific term is quite rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the biblical text, making its single usage particularly impactful.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H8235}}` is in [[Job 26:13]], where it describes a majestic act of God's creative power. The verse states, "By his spirit he hath **garnished** the heavens." In this context, the word signifies more than simple creation; it implies an act of adornment and beautification. God, through His spirit `{{H7307}}`, does not merely set the heavens `{{H8064}}` in place but decorates them with brightness and splendor. This act of garnishing is set in parallel with His hand `{{H3027}}` forming the "crooked serpent" `{{H1281}}``{{H5175}}`, showcasing the breadth of His divine authority.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Job 26:13]] help illuminate the meaning of `{{H8235}}`:
* `{{H7307}}` **rûwach** (spirit): Defined as "wind; by resemblance breath... spirit," this is the agent by which God garnishes the heavens. It points to God's active, powerful, and life-giving presence in creation, as seen in the promise, "Not by might, nor by power, but by my **spirit**, saith the LORD of hosts" [[Zechariah 4:6]].
* `{{H8064}}` **shâmayim** (heavens): This is the object of God's divine artistry, defined as "the sky... heaven(-s)." Its use in the creation account establishes the vast canvas upon which God works: "In the beginning God created the **heaven** and the earth" [[Genesis 1:1]].
* `{{H2342}}` **chûwl** (formed): This word, used to describe the making of the serpent, means to twist, whirl, or bring forth. It is used elsewhere to describe God's foundational work, as in [[Psalms 90:2]], "or ever thou hadst **formed** the earth and the world."
* `{{H3027}}` **yâd** (hand): A symbol of power, means, and action. God's **hand** is presented as the instrument of His work, signifying His direct involvement and strength. The assurance of His presence is often expressed through this term: "The **hand** of our God is upon all them for good that seek him" [[Ezra 8:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8235}}`, despite its single use, is significant. It reveals key aspects of God's character and work.
* **Divine Artistry:** The use of "garnish" shows that God is not only an engineer but an artist. He instills beauty and brightness into His creation, adorning the heavens `{{H8064}}` as a deliberate act of splendor [[Job 26:13]].
* **The Spirit's Creative Power:** The verse explicitly attributes the act of garnishing to God's "spirit" `{{H7307}}`. This highlights the role of the Spirit in bringing about the beauty, order, and life within creation [[Job 26:13]].
* **Sovereignty Over All Realms:** By placing the beautiful act of garnishing the heavens alongside the powerful act of forming the "crooked serpent" `{{H1281}}` in the same verse, the text demonstrates God's absolute authority over every aspect of the cosmos, from the celestial to the formidable [[Job 26:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8235}}` **shiphrâh** offers a profound glimpse into the nature of God's creative work. Though appearing just once, its context in [[Job 26:13]] shows that God's power is expressed not only in might but also in beauty. It portrays God as a divine artist who garnishes the heavens by His Spirit, reminding us that His sovereignty extends to making the universe a place of brightness and splendor.
TRV