### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shârîyr**, represented by `{{H8306}}`, is an exceptionally rare term for **navel**. It is derived from a root suggesting a cord or sinew. This word appears only **1 time** in the entire Bible, in **1 unique verse**, making its single usage highly specific.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H8306}}` is in [[Job 40:16]], within a description of a creature of immense physical power. The verse states, "Lo now, his strength is in his loins, and his force is in the **navel** of his belly." Here, the word is used anatomically to pinpoint a center of force and strength, emphasizing the creature's formidable and concentrated might.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in this verse provide a fuller picture of physical power and anatomy:
* `{{H202}}` **ʼôwn** (force): This word denotes ability, might, and substance. It is used to describe the strength of a firstborn [[Genesis 49:3]] and also refers to wealth or goods [[Job 20:10]].
* `{{H3581}}` **kôach** (strength): Meaning vigor or power, this term is used for both physical ability and divine might. Scripture clarifies that ultimate **power** comes from God, not human effort [[Zechariah 4:6]].
* `{{H4975}}` **môthen** (loins): Referring to the waist or loins, this word is often associated with readiness and strength. It appears in commands to "gird up thy **loins**," a call to prepare for action [[Jeremiah 1:17]].
* `{{H990}}` **beṭen** (belly): While translated as belly, this word is frequently used for the womb, the place of creation. It signifies a place of origin, where God forms life [[Jeremiah 1:5]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{H8306}}` itself has a very limited scope, its context points to larger theological themes centered on God's creative power.
* **Anatomy as a Symbol of Power:** The specific mention of the **navel** in [[Job 40:16]] grounds the description of the creature's might in its physical form, showcasing the power embedded within creation.
* **Divine Formation:** The associated word **beṭen** `{{H990}}` expands the concept from a simple belly to the womb, a place of divine artistry. God's intimate involvement is highlighted in passages where He forms individuals from the womb [[Psalms 139:13]].
* **The Source of All Strength:** The terms for strength, **kôach** `{{H3581}}` and **ʼôwn** `{{H202}}`, are used elsewhere to show that while creation possesses strength, God is the ultimate source. He gives **power** to the faint and works through His spirit, not by human might ([[Isaiah 40:29]], [[Zechariah 4:6]]).
### Summary
In summary, **shârîyr** `{{H8306}}` is a precise anatomical term whose significance comes from its unique context. Appearing only once, it functions to describe the physical epicenter of a creature's great power. However, the surrounding vocabulary in its lone verse connects this physical detail to the broader biblical themes of divine creation, the body as a vessel of power, and God as the ultimate giver of all strength.
TRV