### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term תְּשׁוּרָה (tᵉshûwrâh, `{{H8670}}`) derives from the verbal root שׁוּר (shûr), which carries a primary sense of "to turn," "to travel," "to behold," or "to look." The specific nuance attributed to tᵉshûwrâh in its base definition is "from שׁוּר in the sense of arrival." This etymological connection is crucial, as it imbues the term with a specific semantic range beyond a generic "gift." It denotes a "present" or "gift" that is brought *upon arrival* or *during a visit*. Thus, it is not merely an item exchanged, but one presented in the context of seeking an audience, paying respects, or initiating a consultation. The gift serves as a token of honor, a means of securing favor, or a customary offering when approaching a person of standing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term תְּשׁוּרָה (tᵉshûwrâh, `{{H8670}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in [[1 Samuel 9:7]]. The context is highly illustrative of its precise meaning:
Saul and his servant are on a journey to find Saul's lost donkeys. Having searched extensively without success, they decide to consult Samuel, the man of God, in the land of Zuph. As they approach the city where Samuel is, Saul expresses concern about approaching the prophet empty-handed: "But behold, if we go, what shall we bring the man? For the bread is gone from our sacks, and there is no present (תְּשׁוּרָה) to bring to the man of God. What do we have?"
This single occurrence vividly demonstrates the customary practice of bringing a gift when seeking an audience with a revered figure, particularly a prophet. Saul's apprehension highlights the social expectation that one should not approach such a person without a token of respect or a means of recompense for their time and counsel. The servant's subsequent suggestion to offer a quarter shekel of silver further underscores that the tᵉshûwrâh was a practical, albeit modest, offering intended to facilitate the meeting and show due deference. It was not a bribe, but an established social grace, acknowledging the prophet's status and the value of his spiritual insight.
### Related Words & Concepts
To fully appreciate תְּשׁוּרָה (tᵉshûwrâh, `{{H8670}}`), it is helpful to contrast it with other Hebrew words for "gift" or "offering":
* **מִנְחָה (minchah, `{{H4503}}`):** A broad term encompassing grain offerings, tribute, or a gift often given to appease or show respect (e.g., Jacob's gift to Esau in [[Genesis 32:13]]). While minchah can be a gift, it lacks the specific "arrival" nuance of tᵉshûwrâh.
* **מַתָּנָה (mattânâh, `{{H4979}}`):** A general word for "gift," often emphasizing the act of giving (e.g., God's gift of the land in [[Numbers 18:7]]). This is a more generic term without the contextual specificity of tᵉshûwrâh.
* **שַׁי (shay, `{{H7862}}`):** Refers to a present or tribute, often brought to a superior or king (e.g., gifts brought to Solomon in [[1 Kings 10:25]]). While shay also implies a presentation to a dignitary, tᵉshûwrâh retains its unique connection to the act of *coming* or *visiting*.
* **נֶדֶר (neder, `{{H5088}}`):** A vow or votive offering, made to God as a result of a solemn promise (e.g., [[Leviticus 27:2]]). This is a religious offering, distinct from a social gift.
* **קָרְבָּן (qorbân, `{{H7133}}`):** A general term for an "offering" or "sacrifice," often brought near to God (e.g., [[Leviticus 1:2]]). This term is primarily cultic.
What distinguishes tᵉshûwrâh is its singular focus on a gift presented *upon arrival* or *during a visit*, particularly when seeking an audience with a person of authority or spiritual significance. It speaks to the social etiquette and respectful customs of ancient Israelite society, where one did not appear before a dignitary or prophet empty-handed. This custom also resonates with the broader biblical principle found in [[Deuteronomy 16:16]], where Israelites are commanded not to appear before the Lord "empty-handed" during the annual feasts. While the latter refers to offerings to God, the underlying principle of bringing a token of respect upon approaching a sacred presence is similar.
### Theological Significance
The sole appearance of תְּשׁוּרָה (tᵉshûwrâh, `{{H8670}}`) in [[1 Samuel 9:7]] holds subtle but profound theological significance.
Firstly, it underscores the importance of *reverence and respect* in ancient Israelite culture, particularly when approaching figures of spiritual authority. Saul's concern about appearing empty-handed before Samuel, "the man of God," highlights a societal norm that acknowledged the prophet's unique relationship with the divine. This custom was not merely a social nicety but an outward expression of honor for the prophetic office and, by extension, for God who spoke through His prophet.
Secondly, this seemingly minor detail plays a crucial role in the *divine orchestration* of Saul's anointing. It is the servant's practical suggestion regarding the tᵉshûwrâh that enables Saul to proceed with the visit to Samuel, a visit divinely intended to reveal God's choice for Israel's first king. Even in the mundane details of social custom and financial practicality, God's providential hand is at work, guiding events towards His ultimate purpose.
Finally, the concept of a tᵉshûwrâh can be seen as a practical manifestation of the principle of *acknowledging divine provision and mediation*. Samuel was God's chosen messenger, and the gift, however small, was a recognition of the value of the divine word and guidance sought through him. It implies that spiritual counsel is not to be taken lightly or approached without due consideration and honor.
### Summary
The Hebrew word תְּשׁוּרָה (tᵉshûwrâh, `{{H8670}}`) uniquely designates a "gift" or "present" specifically brought *upon arrival* or *during a visit*. Derived from the root שׁוּר, implying "arrival" or "seeing," it highlights a customary practice of presenting a token of respect when seeking an audience with a person of authority, especially a prophet. Its singular occurrence in [[1 Samuel 9:7]] perfectly illustrates this: Saul's concern about approaching Samuel empty-handed, and his servant's pragmatic solution, underscore the societal expectation for such a respectful offering. Theologically, tᵉshûwrâh reflects the deep reverence accorded to spiritual leaders in ancient Israel and serves as a subtle example of God's meticulous providence, using human customs to advance His divine plan for the anointing of Israel's first king.
TRV