### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tᵉshîyʻîy**, represented by `{{H8671}}`, is an ordinal number meaning **ninth**. It is derived from the word for nine, תֵּשַׁע. Appearing 18 times in 17 verses, it is used throughout scripture primarily to mark specific points in time or to establish a particular sequence in a list, playing a key role in structuring chronological and administrative records.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H8671}}` often designates a time of critical historical importance. It marks the **ninth** year of a king's reign when major events occurred, such as the fall of Samaria [[2 Kings 17:6]] and the beginning of the siege of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar ([[2 Kings 25:1]], [[Jeremiah 52:4]]). The term is also frequently used to specify the **ninth** month for significant moments, including the proclamation of a fast before the LORD [[Jeremiah 36:9]], the gathering of the people in Jerusalem [[Ezra 10:9]], and the laying of the LORD's temple foundation [[Haggai 2:18]]. It also denotes sequence, as in the offering on the **ninth** day [[Numbers 7:60]] and the assignment of the **ninth** captain [[1 Chronicles 27:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help provide a broader context for time and order:
* `{{H2320}}` **chôdesh** (month): This word, meaning **month** or **new moon**, is frequently paired with `{{H8671}}` to date events. The phrase "the ninth **month**" appears in contexts of fasting [[Jeremiah 36:9]], prophecy [[Zechariah 7:1]], and royal life [[Jeremiah 36:22]].
* `{{H8141}}` **shâneh** (year): Meaning **a year**, this term is crucial for understanding the chronological framework where `{{H8671}}` operates. It is used to mark the **ninth** year of a king's reign [[2 Kings 17:6]] and to delineate the period of God's provision during the sabbatical cycle [[Leviticus 25:22]].
* `{{H8066}}` **shᵉmîynîy** (eighth): As the ordinal number for **eight**, this term often appears in direct sequence with "ninth." This is seen in Leviticus, which contrasts the sowing in the **eighth** year with eating the harvest until the ninth year [[Leviticus 25:22]], and in Chronicles, which lists the **eighth** and ninth warriors in succession [[1 Chronicles 12:12]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H8671}}` carries significant thematic weight, often associated with moments of divine action and covenant fulfillment.
* **Judgment and Restoration:** The term repeatedly marks periods of national crisis and judgment, such as the beginning of the Babylonian siege of Jerusalem in the **ninth** year [[Ezekiel 24:1]]. However, it also signifies hope and restoration, as the LORD commands the people to consider the rebuilding of His temple from the **ninth** month [[Haggai 2:18]].
* **Divine Provision:** In the laws of the sabbatical year, God promises to provide enough food from the old harvest to last until the **ninth** year [[Leviticus 25:22]]. This highlights His faithfulness to sustain His people even during times of mandated rest.
* **Order in Service:** The word is used in Chronicles to structure the administration of the kingdom and the temple. It organizes military divisions by appointing a captain for the **ninth** month [[1 Chronicles 27:12]] and establishes order in worship by assigning the **ninth** lot to the priestly family of Jeshua [[1 Chronicles 24:11]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8671}}` is far more than a simple numerical designator. It functions as a vital chronological anchor in the Old Testament, marking pivotal moments of history, from the collapse of a kingdom to the foundation of a new temple. It provides structure to legal, administrative, and priestly systems and illustrates theological truths about God's judgment, His orderly creation, and His faithful provision for His people.
TRV