### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shᵉqaʻrûwrâh**, represented by `{{H8258}}`, is a rare term defined as a **depression** or **hollow strake**. Its unique nature is highlighted by the fact that it appears only **1 time** in the entire Bible, making its specific context essential to its meaning. The word is derived from a root meaning to sink or be depressed.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H8258}}` is in [[Leviticus 14:37]], within the laws concerning leprous plagues in a house. In this verse, a priest is instructed to inspect a house for a **plague** (`negaʻ`). If the plague is found in the walls of the **house** (`bayith`), it is described as being in **hollow strakes** (`shᵉqaʻrûwrâh`) that are **greenish** (`yᵉraqraq`) or **reddish** (`'ădamdâm`). The verse further specifies that these depressions appear **lower** (`shâphâl`) than the surface of the wall, making them a visible and physical sign of potential contamination.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its biblical context help clarify the meaning of `{{H8258}}`:
* `{{H5061}}` **negaʻ** (plague): This word means a **blow**, **sore**, or **plague**. It is the underlying condition that manifests in the `shᵉqaʻrûwrâh`, or hollow strakes, signifying a serious impurity that must be addressed [[Leviticus 14:37]]. In a different context, it is used for disciplinary **stripes** [[2 Samuel 7:14]].
* `{{H7023}}` **qîyr** (wall): Defined as a **wall**, this is the location where the `shᵉqaʻrûwrâh` appears. The integrity of the **wall** is compromised by the presence of the plague within these depressions, highlighting the structural and ceremonial threat [[Leviticus 14:37]]. A **wall** can also be a symbol of protection, as in [[Isaiah 25:4]].
* `{{H8217}}` **shâphâl** (depressed, low): This adjective describes the `shᵉqaʻrûwrâh` as being "lower" than the surrounding wall. Its definition of **depressed** or **low** reinforces the core meaning of `shᵉqaʻrûwrâh`. Figuratively, it is used to describe a **humble** spirit, in contrast to pride [[Proverbs 29:23]].
* `{{H7200}}` **râʼâh** (to see): This word, meaning **to see** or **look**, is the action the priest must take. The `shᵉqaʻrûwrâh` is the object of his sight, and his inspection is the critical step in discerning the nature of the plague. The act of seeing is central to judgment, whether by man or God [[1 Samuel 16:7]].
### Theological Significance
While appearing only once, the conceptual weight of `{{H8258}}` is found in its role within the laws of purity.
* **A Sign of Deeper Corruption:** The **hollow strake** is not the disease itself but the external, physical sign of a deeper problem—the `negaʻ` (plague). It serves as a visible indicator that something is wrong within the structure of the **house** (`bayith`).
* **The Link Between Physical and Spiritual State:** The term describes a physical depression that contains a ceremonial impurity. This connects a physical imperfection—a low or sunken place—with a state of uncleanness, highlighting how the physical world was seen as reflecting spiritual realities.
* **The Mandate for Careful Inspection:** The presence of `shᵉqaʻrûwrâh` necessitates an official inspection by a priest [[Leviticus 14:37]]. This underscores a broader biblical theme of discernment and the need to **look** (`râʼâh`) closely to identify and deal with corruption, whether in a physical structure or a person's life.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8258}}` **shᵉqaʻrûwrâh** is a highly specific term for a sunken or depressed area. Its singular use in scripture firmly places it within the legal framework for identifying a plague in a house. Though rare, it serves as a powerful example of how a tangible, physical detail—a "hollow strake" in a wall—could carry significant weight, acting as the primary indicator of a deeper corruption that required immediate and careful judgment.
TRV