### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shâshâʼ**, represented by `{{H8338}}`, is a primitive root. Its meaning is apparently to **annihilate**, though it is also translated as **leave by the sixth part** due to confusion with a similar word. It is an extremely rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single occurrence of `{{H8338}}` is found in a prophecy of divine judgment in [[Ezekiel 39:2]]. In this verse, God declares His intention to act against an invading force, stating, "And I will turn thee back, and **leave but the sixth part** of thee." The word is used to quantify the immense scale of destruction that God will bring upon the enemies of Israel, emphasizing that only a small fraction will survive His judgment upon the mountains of Israel.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of this solitary verse links `{{H8338}}` to several key Hebrew words that describe God's sovereign action:
* `{{H7725}}` **shûwb** (to turn back): This primitive root signifies a retreat or turning away. It is used immediately before `{{H8338}}` to describe the first action God takes against the invading army, initiating their downfall [[Ezekiel 39:2]].
* `{{H5927}}` **ʻâlâh** (to ascend): This root is used to describe how God will "cause thee to **come up**" to the place of judgment. It highlights God's control in bringing the enemy to the mountains of Israel for this purpose [[Ezekiel 39:2]].
* `{{H2022}}` **har** (a mountain): This term specifies the location of the judgment. The enemy is brought "upon the **mountains** of Israel," setting the stage for the dramatic event described in the prophecy [[Ezekiel 39:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H8338}}` is derived entirely from its singular, powerful use.
* **Sovereign Judgment:** The word appears within a divine declaration, illustrating God's absolute power to execute judgment and **annihilate** opposing forces according to His will.
* **Overwhelming Defeat:** The specific meaning, "leave by the sixth part," provides a vivid and quantifiable image of total defeat. It serves not as a promise of a remnant for salvation, but as a stark warning of near-complete destruction for an enemy.
* **Divine Luring:** The context shows God actively bringing an enemy force up from the north parts [[Ezekiel 39:2]] only to destroy them, underscoring a theme of divine sovereignty where even the plans of nations serve God's ultimate purpose of judgment and redemption for His people, Israel.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H8338}}` **shâshâʼ** is one of the rarest words in the biblical text, its role is impactful. Appearing only once in [[Ezekiel 39:2]], it serves to describe a near-total annihilation, leaving only a "sixth part." This term is a potent expression of God's sovereign power over nations and a stark illustration of the finality of His judgment against those who set themselves against His people.
TRV