### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shâphath**, represented by `{{H8239}}`, is a primitive root used to mean **to locate, establish, bring, ordain, or set on**. It appears a total of **5 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning ranges from the concrete action of placing an object to the figurative act of establishing a state of being.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H8239}}` is used in both literal and figurative ways. In a literal sense, it describes the physical act of placing something. Elisha commands his servant to "**Set on** the great pot" [[2 Kings 4:38]], and in Ezekiel's parable, the Lord commands, "**Set on** a pot, **set it on**" [[Ezekiel 24:3]]. Figuratively, it conveys the idea of being brought into a specific state or condition. The psalmist expresses deep despair by stating that God has "**brought** me into the dust of death" [[Psalms 22:15]]. In a positive, theological sense, it is used to describe God's sovereign establishment of peace, as seen in the declaration, "LORD, thou wilt **ordain** peace for us" [[Isaiah 26:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words appear alongside `{{H8239}}`, helping to clarify its meaning in context:
* `{{H3332}}` **yâtsaq** (to pour out): In Ezekiel's parable, immediately after the command to "Set on a pot" `{{H8239}}`, the next instruction is to "**pour** water into it" [[Ezekiel 24:3]]. This shows a direct sequence of actions: first placing, then filling.
* `{{H4911}}` **mâshal** (to use figurative language): The command to "Set on a pot" in Ezekiel is part of a parable. The verse begins with the instruction to "**utter** a parable," linking the physical action of `{{H8239}}` to a larger symbolic message [[Ezekiel 24:3]].
* `{{H6466}}` **pâʻal** (to do or make): In Isaiah, the promise that God will "**ordain**" `{{H8239}}` peace is based on the fact that "thou also hast **wrought** all our works in us" [[Isaiah 26:12]]. This connects the establishment of peace with God's prior actions and work.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8239}}` is seen in its depiction of God's sovereign authority to place and establish.
* **Divine Placement:** The word illustrates God's power to place individuals in specific circumstances, from the depths of despair in "the dust of death" [[Psalms 22:15]] to a position of divinely established security.
* **Establishing Peace:** In Isaiah, `{{H8239}}` is used to show that peace is not a random occurrence but something purposefully **ordained** by God as a direct result of His work on behalf of His people [[Isaiah 26:12]].
* **Symbolic Action:** The literal command to "**set on** a pot" [[Ezekiel 24:3]] serves as a physical sign for a spiritual message, demonstrating how God uses tangible acts to communicate profound truths to a rebellious house.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8239}}` is a versatile word that conveys the act of setting something in place. While appearing only a few times, its usage spans from the mundane instruction to set a pot on a fire to the profound theological concept of God ordaining peace or bringing a person to the brink of death. It powerfully illustrates the authority to establish, whether it is an object in a physical location or a condition in the life of a person or nation.
TRV