(Aramaic) a root corresponding to that of שֵׁרוּת; to free, separate; figuratively, to unravel, commence; by implication (of unloading beasts) to reside; begin, dissolve, dwell, loose.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **שְׁרֵא (shᵉrêʼ)**, represented by `{{H8271}}`, is a versatile verb with a range of meanings including to free, unravel, reside, or begin. It appears 6 times across 6 unique verses in the Aramaic portions of Scripture, demonstrating its importance in conveying concepts from physical release to divine action and the solving of complex problems.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H8271}}` is used in several distinct contexts. It can describe a state of physical freedom, as when the four men in the fiery furnace were seen walking about **loose** and unharmed [[Daniel 3:25]]. Conversely, it can illustrate a physical unraveling caused by fear, where King Belshazzar’s "joints of his loins were **loosed**" upon seeing the divine writing on the wall [[Daniel 5:6]]. Figuratively, the word is used to describe Daniel's unique ability for the "**dissolving** of doubts" ([[Daniel 5:12]], [[Daniel 5:16]]). It is also used to signify the commencement of a great work, as when Zerubbabel and Jeshua "**began** to build the house of God" [[Ezra 5:2]]. Finally, it describes a divine attribute, noting that "light **dwelleth**" with God [[Daniel 2:22]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide a fuller context for the actions and concepts associated with `{{H8271}}`:
* `{{H7001}}` **qᵉṭar** (doubt, joint): This word signifies a "knot" or a "riddle" and is what Daniel is able to **dissolve** [[Daniel 5:12]]. It is also used literally for the "joints" of the king's loins that were **loosed** in terror [[Daniel 5:6]].
* `{{H1124}}` **bᵉnâʼ** (build, make): This verb is directly paired with `{{H8271}}` to show the initiation of a significant project, as when the leaders of Israel **began** to **build** the house of God [[Ezra 5:2]].
* `{{H6590}}` **pᵉshar** (to interpret): Daniel's capacity for "**dissolving** doubts" is listed alongside his skill in "**interpreting** of dreams," linking the unraveling of problems to the revelation of divine secrets [[Daniel 5:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8271}}` is evident in its varied applications.
* **Divine Revelation:** The word underscores God's sovereignty over knowledge. Light "**dwelleth**" with Him, and He is the one who ultimately "**revealeth** the deep and secret things" [[Daniel 2:22]]. Daniel's ability to "**dissolve** doubts" is presented as a gift from an "excellent spirit," pointing to God as the source of wisdom [[Daniel 5:12]].
* **Consequence and Deliverance:** The word illustrates two opposing reactions to divine power. For the defiant king, God's presence brings a physical unraveling and terror [[Daniel 5:6]]. For the faithful servants, God's presence in the fire brings miraculous freedom, leaving them **loose** and safe [[Daniel 3:25]].
* **Commencement of God's Plan:** The use of `{{H8271}}` to mark the moment Zerubbabel and Jeshua "**began** to build" highlights a pivotal act of restoration for Israel, undertaken with the direct help of God's prophets [[Ezra 5:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8271}}` is a dynamic term whose meaning shifts significantly with its context. It can represent literal unbinding, the beginning of a holy task, the intellectual unraveling of mysteries, or the very residence of divine light. From the loosening of a king’s joints in fear to the freeing of the faithful in the fire, **shᵉrêʼ** encapsulates concepts of release, revelation, and divine initiative.
TRV