or תֹּשָׁב; (1 Kings 17:1), from יָשַׁב; a dweller (but not outlandish (נׇכְרִי)); especially (as distinguished from a native citizen (active participle of יָשַׁב) and a temporary inmate (גֵּר) or mere lodger (לוּן)); resident alien; foreigner, inhabitant, sojourner, stranger.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tôwshâb**, represented by `{{H8453}}`, refers to a resident alien, foreigner, or sojourner. It appears **14 times** across **13 unique verses**. This term describes a dweller who is not a native citizen but is distinct from a temporary inmate `{{H1616}}` or a hired servant `{{H7916}}`.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H8453}}` is used to define a specific social and theological status. Abraham identifies himself as a "stranger and a **sojourner**" to establish his standing as a resident without land ownership rights [[Genesis 23:4]]. This concept is extended to all of Israel when God declares that the land is His and the people are "strangers and **sojourners** with me" [[Leviticus 25:23]]. This identity is confessed again by David in prayer [[1 Chronicles 29:15]] and the Psalmist [[Psalms 39:12]]. Laws also governed the conduct of a **tôwshâb**; for instance, a **foreigner** could not eat the Passover meal [[Exodus 12:45]], but a poor **sojourner** was to be relieved and supported [[Leviticus 25:35]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the status of a **sojourner**:
* `{{H1616}}` **gêr** (alien, sojourner, stranger): Often used alongside **tôwshâb**, this word refers more broadly to a foreigner or guest. The two terms together emphasize a non-native status, as when Abraham describes himself as a "stranger (**gêr**) and a sojourner (**tôwshâb**)" [[Genesis 23:4]].
* `{{H1481}}` **gûwr** (sojourn, dwell, be afraid): This root verb describes the act of sojourning. It appears in contexts outlining the Israelites' responsibility to provide for the **stranger** that "sojourneth" among them ([[Leviticus 25:6]], [[Leviticus 25:45]]).
* `{{H7916}}` **sâkîyr** (hired servant, hireling): This term is often mentioned with **tôwshâb** to distinguish between different classes of non-Israelites with limited rights, particularly regarding participation in holy meals ([[Exodus 12:45]], [[Leviticus 22:10]]) and terms of service [[Leviticus 25:40]].
* `{{H272}}` **ʼăchuzzâh** (possession): This word for a possession, especially of land, stands in contrast to the status of a **tôwshâb**. Abraham, as a sojourner, had to request a "possession of a buryingplace" [[Genesis 23:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8453}}` is significant, highlighting several key themes:
* **Divine Ownership and Human Stewardship:** The term underscores that God is the ultimate owner of the land, and His people are merely **sojourners** dwelling there by His grace. This principle was foundational to Israel's land laws, including the prohibition on selling land permanently [[Leviticus 25:23]].
* **A Life of Pilgrimage:** By identifying themselves as **sojourners**, figures like Abraham and David express a sense of temporariness and dependence on God. This status reflects a journey of faith, where one's true home is not of this world ([[1 Chronicles 29:15]], [[Psalms 39:12]]).
* **Justice for the Vulnerable:** The Law provided specific protections for the **sojourner**, ensuring they were to be cared for in poverty [[Leviticus 25:35]] and had access to cities of refuge [[Numbers 35:15]]. This reflects God's concern for those without the full security of native citizenship.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8453}}` is much more than a generic term for a foreigner. It defines the specific status of a resident alien who, while settled, lacked the land rights of a native citizen. The word carries profound theological implications, framing humanity's relationship with God as that of **sojourners** who are dependent on His provision and stewardship of His creation. It is a cornerstone for understanding biblical concepts of pilgrimage, divine ownership, and social justice.
TRV