### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term שֵׁרוּת (shêrûwth, `{{H8293}}`) is a rare noun derived from the verb שָׁרָה (shârah, `{{H8287}}`). The root verb carries a dual semantic range, encompassing both the concepts of "to loosen, release, set free" and "to remain, be left over." This dual meaning is profoundly reflected in the noun שֵׁרוּת (shêrûwth). On one hand, it can denote "freedom" or "release," representing the state of being unconstrained or liberated. On the other hand, it signifies a "remnant" or "survivor," referring to that which is left behind or remains after a process of reduction or destruction. The connection between these seemingly disparate meanings lies in the underlying concept of "letting go" or "being left" – either being let go *into* freedom, or being what is left *after* something has been let go or removed.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word שֵׁרוּת (shêrûwth, `{{H8293}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, which makes its contextual analysis paramount for understanding its precise meaning in biblical usage.
Its sole occurrence is found in [[Numbers 21:35]]: "So they struck him and his sons and all his people until there was no survivor (שֵׁרוּת) left to him; and they possessed his land."
In this verse, the context is a military confrontation between Israel and Sihon, king of the Amorites. The phrase "no survivor (שֵׁרוּת) left to him" unequivocally points to the meaning of "remnant" or "survivor." It emphasizes the totality of the defeat and destruction inflicted upon Sihon's forces and people. The absence of any שֵׁרוּת signifies a complete annihilation, leaving no one alive to continue his lineage or maintain his kingdom. This usage underscores the decisive and comprehensive nature of the victory granted to Israel by God, leaving no lingering threat or remaining opposition from Sihon's realm.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary lexical connection for שֵׁרוּת (shêrûwth, `{{H8293}}`) is its root verb, שָׁרָה (shârah, `{{H8287}}`), which, as noted, means "to loosen, release, set free" and "to remain, be left." This root also gives rise to other related terms, such as שָׁרָה (shârah, `{{H8290}}`), which refers to a "bracelet" (perhaps something that is "loose" or "dangling"), and שָׁרָה (shârah, `{{H8291}}`), referring to a "princess" or "noblewoman" (possibly related to being "set free" or "having authority").
While שֵׁרוּת (shêrûwth, `{{H8293}}`) itself speaks of a "remnant," it is distinct from other more common and theologically charged Hebrew terms for "remnant," such as שְׁאָר (she'ar, `{{H7611}}`) or יֶתֶר (yeter, `{{H3499}}`). These latter terms often carry significant theological weight, referring to a faithful remnant preserved by God for redemptive purposes (e.g., in prophetic literature). In contrast, שֵׁרוּת (shêrûwth, `{{H8293}}`) in [[Numbers 21:35]] describes the *absence* of a remnant, emphasizing the completeness of destruction rather than the preservation of a chosen few.
Regarding the "freedom" aspect of its semantic range, while not explicitly manifested in its sole biblical occurrence, it connects conceptually to broader biblical themes of liberation and deliverance, often achieved through divine intervention (e.g., the Exodus).
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of שֵׁרוּת (shêrûwth, `{{H8293}}`) in [[Numbers 21:35]] holds theological significance primarily in its contribution to the narrative of divine judgment and the execution of God's will in the conquest of Canaan. The declaration that "no survivor" (שֵׁרוּת) was left of Sihon's people underscores the thoroughness and finality of the judgment meted out by God through Israel.
This passage reveals several theological principles:
1. **Divine Sovereignty and Judgment:** God's power is absolute, capable of bringing complete destruction upon those who oppose His plans and His people. The absence of any remnant signifies the comprehensive nature of divine judgment.
2. **Fulfillment of Promise:** The complete defeat of Sihon, leaving no survivors, is part of God's promise to give the land to Israel. It demonstrates God's faithfulness in clearing the way for His covenant people.
3. **Holiness and Separation:** In the context of the conquest, the command to utterly destroy certain peoples was part of God's strategy to prevent the corruption of Israel by pagan practices. The lack of a "remnant" ensures the complete removal of the threat.
While the term itself does not carry the positive, redemptive connotation of the "faithful remnant" found elsewhere in Scripture, it powerfully communicates the severity and completeness of divine action when judgment is unleashed.
### Summary
The Hebrew term שֵׁרוּת (shêrûwth, `{{H8293}}`) is a rare noun derived from the root שָׁרָה (shârah, `{{H8287}}`), encompassing the dual meanings of "freedom" and "remnant." Its sole biblical occurrence in [[Numbers 21:35]] employs the latter meaning, emphatically stating that "no survivor" was left of Sihon's people after the battle with Israel. This usage highlights the complete and decisive nature of the victory and the thoroughness of divine judgment. Theologically, שֵׁרוּת (shêrûwth, `{{H8293}}`) in this context serves to underscore God's absolute sovereignty, His faithfulness in fulfilling His promises, and the comprehensive execution of His judgment against those who stand in the way of His covenant purposes.
TRV