### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shᵉthîyâh**, represented by `{{H8360}}`, is a term for **drinking** or **potation**. This word is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the biblical text. Its sole occurrence is found in the context of a royal feast, where the act of drinking is governed by a specific decree.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{H8360}}` is in the book of Esther, describing a banquet held by the king `{{H4428}}`. The verse explains that the **drinking** was conducted "according to the law" `{{H1881}}`, but with a unique provision: "none did compel" `{{H597}}`. The king had appointed `{{H3245}}` to the officers `{{H7227}}` of his house `{{H1004}}` that all guests should be allowed to do `{{H6213}}` according to every man's `{{H376}}` own pleasure `{{H7522}}`, rather than being forced to drink [[Esther 1:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of **shᵉthîyâh** is defined by several key related words found in the same verse:
* `{{H1881}}` **dâth** (a royal edict or statute): This word establishes that the rules for the drinking were not a mere custom but an official law. This term is used elsewhere for decrees, such as the "fiery law" from God's right hand [[Deuteronomy 33:2]] and the king's decrees concerning the Jews [[Esther 4:8]].
* `{{H597}}` **ʼânaç** (to insist; compel): This word is central to the uniqueness of the king's rule, specifying what was forbidden. Its only appearance is in this verse, highlighting the explicit lack of compulsion at the feast [[Esther 1:8]].
* `{{H7522}}` **râtsôwn** (delight... pleasure, (own, self, voluntary) will): This term defines the standard for each guest's consumption. It connects the act of drinking to personal desire, a concept also used in contexts of what is acceptable to the LORD [[Psalms 19:14]] and doing God's will [[Psalms 143:10]].
* `{{H3245}}` **yâçad** (to set (literally or figuratively)... appoint, ... found): This indicates that the king formally established or ordained the rule. This word is also used for laying foundations, such as the foundation of the house of the LORD [[Ezra 3:11]] and God laying the foundation of the earth [[Zechariah 12:1]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{H8360}}` itself does not carry broad theological weight, its singular context in [[Esther 1:8]] illustrates several important principles:
* **Sovereign Command and Liberty:** The narrative shows a king `{{H4428}}` issuing a law `{{H1881}}` that, instead of restricting, grants liberty. The king **appointed** `{{H3245}}` that there would be no compulsion `{{H597}}`, a demonstration of authority used to ensure personal freedom.
* **Conduct Governed by Will:** The rule for the **drinking** was that everyone should act according to their own **pleasure** `{{H7522}}`. This places individual will at the center of conduct, a theme that resonates with the concept of a "voluntary will" in offerings made to the LORD [[Leviticus 1:3]].
* **Hospitality and Law:** The passage links the act of **drinking** directly to the law of a king's house `{{H1004}}`. It presents a model where hospitality is defined and regulated by an official, though generous, edict.
### Summary
In summary, **shᵉthîyâh** `{{H8360}}` is a specific term for **drinking** whose significance comes entirely from its unique context. Appearing only once, it serves as the focal point of a royal decree that sets a standard of non-compulsion and personal freedom. The word and its surrounding narrative in [[Esther 1:8]] demonstrate how a king's law `{{H1881}}` can be used not to force an action, but to protect the individual's own will `{{H7522}}`, making it a noteworthy example of authority exercised with consideration for personal pleasure.
TRV