### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma שָׁתַת (shâthath), designated by `{{H8371}}`, is presented as a primitive root with a core semantic range encompassing "to place," "to array," "to lie," and "to be laid" or "to be set." This definition suggests a fundamental act of positioning or establishing. The primary sense appears to be that of purposeful arrangement or imposition of order ("to array"). The reflexive or passive sense, "to lie" or "to be laid/set," indicates a state of being positioned or established, often implying a state of rest or permanence resulting from an initial act of placing. This root points to the foundational concept of setting something in a particular place or order, whether physically or conceptually.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
It is important to note that the primitive root שָׁתַת (`{{H8371}}`) itself does not appear as a verbal form in the Masoretic Text of the Hebrew Bible. Its designation as a "primitive root" indicates that it is considered a foundational etymological source from which other words or concepts might derive, or it represents a theoretical root embodying a core idea. While specific verbal occurrences cannot be analyzed, the conceptual meaning embedded in this root—that of placing, setting, or arraying—is profoundly present throughout Scripture. This concept underpins numerous theological themes related to creation, divine order, and human establishment, even if expressed through other, more common verbal roots. The absence of שָׁתַת as a direct verbal occurrence does not diminish the significance of its defined meaning as a foundational concept in the Hebrew lexicon.
### Related Words & Concepts
Though שָׁתַת (`{{H8371}}`) does not appear as a verb, its semantic range connects it to a constellation of Hebrew words that express similar ideas of placing, establishing, and ordering. Key among these are:
* `{{H7760}}` שׂוּם (sûm): A very common verb meaning "to put," "to place," "to set," or "to appoint." This word often describes divine action in establishing laws, appointing leaders, or setting boundaries, echoing the "placing" aspect of שָׁתַת.
* `{{H3245}}` יָסַד (yāsadh): "To found," "to establish," often used in the context of laying foundations for buildings, cities, or even the earth itself (e.g., [[Psalm 104:5]]). This aligns with the "setting" or "laying" aspect of שָׁתַת, particularly in its sense of permanence.
* `{{H5975}}` עָמַד (ʿāmādh): "To stand," "to stand still," but also "to establish" or "to appoint." This verb can convey the idea of being firmly set or positioned.
* `{{H6965}}` קוּם (qûm): "To rise," "to stand up," but also "to establish" or "to confirm." While often implying rising, it can also denote the act of setting something firmly in place.
The "array" aspect of שָׁתַת also resonates with concepts of divine order and cosmic arrangement, as seen in the structured creation narrative of Genesis.
### Theological Significance
The conceptual meaning of שָׁתַת (`{{H8371}}`)—to place, to set, to array, to be laid—carries profound theological significance, even in its non-occurrence as a direct verb. It points to:
1. **Divine Sovereignty and Order:** God is consistently portrayed in Scripture as the one who "places" and "sets" all things. He establishes the heavens and the earth (e.g., [[Psalm 8:3]], [[Psalm 104:5]]), sets boundaries for the seas (e.g., [[Job 38:8-11]]), and orders the cosmos. This reflects a divine will that is not chaotic but purposeful and precise in its arrangement.
2. **Foundation and Establishment:** The act of "laying" or "setting" implies the creation of a foundation, whether for the physical world, moral laws, or covenants. God is the ultimate establisher, providing stability and permanence to His creation and His promises.
3. **Appointment and Purpose:** God "sets" individuals in positions of authority or for specific purposes (e.g., prophets, kings, priests). This highlights His active role in human history and His deliberate design for individuals and nations.
4. **Rest and Completion:** The reflexive sense "to lie" or "to be laid" can evoke themes of rest, completion, or even death and burial. In a theological sense, this can point to the Sabbath rest after creation, the peace found in God's established order, or the final rest awaiting the faithful.
### Summary
The primitive root שָׁתַת (`{{H8371}}`), though not directly attested as a verb in the Masoretic Text, embodies a foundational concept in Hebrew thought: the act of purposeful "placing," "setting," or "arraying." Its semantic range extends to the resulting state of being "laid" or "set." This core meaning illuminates the biblical understanding of God as the supreme establisher, the one who brings order out of chaos, lays the foundations of creation, and sets all things according to His sovereign will. While other Hebrew verbs more frequently express these actions, שָׁתַת represents an underlying conceptual bedrock for themes of divine order, establishment, and purposeful arrangement throughout the biblical narrative.
TRV