### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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