### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **sârâh**, represented by `{{H8282}}`, is the feminine form of `{{H8269}}` and denotes a female noble. Its definitions include **mistress, lady, princess, and queen**. It appears only 5 times in 5 verses, making each occurrence significant in illustrating the status and role of high-ranking women.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H8282}}` consistently points to women of significant rank and influence. Solomon's royal wives are called **princesses** [[1 Kings 11:3]], and the noblewomen of the Persian court are referred to as **ladies** [[Esther 1:18]]. The word is also used metaphorically in [[Lamentations 1:1]], where the city of Jerusalem, once great among nations, is described as a **princess** who has been brought low. In a prophetic context, Isaiah foretells a time when foreign **queens** will serve as nursing mothers to Israel, demonstrating a reversal of fortunes and divine favor [[Isaiah 49:23]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the scope of female rank and status:
* `{{H8269}}` **sar** (prince): As the male counterpart, this word means "a head person (of any rank or class)." It is used for rulers and is famously applied to the Messiah as the "Prince of Peace" [[Isaiah 9:6]].
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (king): This term for a male sovereign often appears in contexts with female royalty. In [[Isaiah 49:23]], **kings** and their **queens** (sârâh) are paired together in a prophecy of service to Israel.
* `{{H4436}}` **malkâh** (queen): A direct synonym for queen, this word is used alongside `{{H8282}}` in [[Esther 1:18]], where the "deed of the **queen**" is discussed by the **ladies** (sârâh) of the court.
* `{{H490}}` **ʼalmânâh** (widow): This term provides a stark contrast to the honor of a princess. In [[Lamentations 1:1]], Jerusalem's fall from being a **princess** is emphasized by her becoming "as a **widow**," signifying desolation and loss of status.
### Theological Significance
The conceptual significance of `{{H8282}}` is tied to themes of honor, status, and divine purpose.
* **National Personification:** The term is used to personify the city of Jerusalem, with **princess** symbolizing its former glory, honor, and high standing among the provinces [[Lamentations 1:1]]. Her fall from this status is a central theme of the lament.
* **Earthly Nobility:** The word establishes a clear hierarchy in the social and political structure, identifying women of royal birth or marriage, such as Solomon's wives [[1 Kings 11:3]] and the noble **ladies** of the Persian and Median court [[Esther 1:18]].
* **Prophetic Reversal:** The promise that foreign **queens** will become "nursing mothers" to Israel shows God's power to subordinate the highest earthly authorities to His will and for the care of His people [[Isaiah 49:23]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8282}}` is a specific and potent term for female nobility in the Hebrew scriptures. Though used sparingly, it effectively communicates concepts of high rank, from the **ladies** of a royal court to powerful **queens**. Its use in both literal and metaphorical contexts illustrates the heights of worldly honor and serves as a powerful symbol in prophecies of national judgment and restoration.
TRV