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.
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.
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.
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.
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