The Hebrew word shᵉrêmâh, represented by H8309, is understood as a field. Its definition suggests it is probably an orthographical error for shᵉdêmâh H7709, a more common word for field. This term appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible.
The single occurrence of H8309 is found in Jeremiah 31:40, within a prophecy of future restoration. The verse describes a comprehensive transformation where "the whole valley of the dead bodies, and of the ashes, and all the fields" will become "holy unto the LORD". This area, once associated with defilement and impurity, is reclaimed and consecrated. The use of shᵉrêmâh alongside the more common term for fields H7709 emphasizes the inclusion of all lands in this divine act of renewal.
Several related words clarify the significance of shᵉrêmâh in its only appearance:
- H7709 shᵉdêmâh (a cultivated field): This is the word for which H8309 is likely an orthographical error. It appears directly with it in Jeremiah 31:40 to describe the fields that will be made holy. It can also refer to fields that fail Habakkuk 3:17 or languish Isaiah 16:8.
- H6944 qôdesh (holiness): This term defines the future state of the fields. They will become holy unto the LORD, elevating them from common ground to a sacred place consecrated to God Jeremiah 31:40.
- H5428 nâthash (to pluck up): The promise that the area "shall not be plucked up" Jeremiah 31:40 establishes the permanence of this restoration. This is a direct reversal of judgment, where the Lord's commission to Jeremiah was to "root out" and to pull down Jeremiah 1:10.
The theological weight of H8309 is derived entirely from its singular, powerful context.
- Redemption of the Unclean: The word appears as part of a landscape that includes a "valley of the dead bodies and of the ashes" Jeremiah 31:40. The transformation of these fields into something holy demonstrates God's power to redeem and consecrate what is considered defiled or common.
- Eternal Security: The promise that these fields "shall not be plucked up, nor thrown down any more for ever" Jeremiah 31:40 points to the finality and security of God's covenant restoration. What God makes holy H6944 is established forever H5769.
- Comprehensive Restoration: By including "all the fields" in this prophecy, the text signifies that God's redemptive work is not limited to specific religious sites, but extends to the entire land, including the common areas of life and work.
In summary, shᵉrêmâh H8309 is a term for field whose significance is tied exclusively to its appearance in Jeremiah 31:40. Though likely a scribal variant of shᵉdêmâh H7709, its context gives it profound meaning. It represents not just a piece of land, but land that is part of a divine promise of transformation—from a place of defilement to one of eternal holiness, secured by the unchanging word of the LORD H3068. It serves as a powerful illustration of God's ability to restore and sanctify all creation.
TRV