or (masculine) תִּשְׁעָה; perhaps from שָׁעָה through the idea of a turn to the next or full number ten; nine or (ordinal) ninth; nine ([phrase] -teen, [phrase] -teenth, -th).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H8672}}` (têshaʻ), along with its masculine form תִּשְׁעָה (tishʻah), primarily denotes the cardinal number "nine" or the ordinal "ninth." The base definition suggests a potential etymological connection to the root `{{H8159}}` (shaʻah), which carries meanings related to "gazing," "looking," or "turning." If this etymological link holds, it subtly implies that "nine" represents a "turn to the next or full number ten," positioning it as the penultimate digit before a complete decimal cycle. Thus, its semantic range is fundamentally numerical, serving to quantify items, specify sequence, or denote a particular point in time or a series.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of `{{H8672}}` throughout the Hebrew Bible are consistently numerical, providing precise detail in various contexts. It frequently appears in:
* **Chronological Markers:** The "ninth year" is often cited to anchor historical events or prophetic pronouncements, such as the ninth year of King Zedekiah's reign when Jerusalem was besieged ([[2 Kings 25:1]]; [[Jeremiah 39:2]]). Similarly, the "ninth month" marks specific times for events or observances ([[Jeremiah 36:9]]; [[Zechariah 8:19]]).
* **Genealogical Records:** Though less common than other numbers, "nine" can appear in the enumeration of generations, as seen in the ninth generation from a patriarch ([[1 Chronicles 7:10]]).
* **Enumeration and Lists:** It functions as a simple count within various lists, such as the offerings brought by the leaders of Israel ([[Numbers 7:60]]) or the number of specific items. The number can also be part of larger numerical expressions, such as "nine hundred and ninety-nine" ([[Genesis 17:17]]), demonstrating its role in constructing complex quantities.
* **Dimensions and Proportions:** In some instances, "nine" specifies a quantity or proportion, contributing to the precise measurements or descriptions found in biblical texts.
In all its uses, `{{H8672}}` maintains its literal numerical value, contributing to the factual and historical accuracy embedded within the biblical narrative.
### Related Words & Concepts
As a cardinal number, `{{H8672}}` inherently relates to the broader system of Hebrew numerals. It stands in direct proximity to `{{H6235}}` (ʻeser), "ten," which often represents completion or a full unit, and `{{H8147}}` (shebaʻ), "seven," a number rich in symbolic meaning for perfection or divine completeness. Unlike "seven" or "three," "nine" does not carry extensive independent theological symbolism within the Hebrew Bible. Its primary relationship is functional, serving as a building block for larger numbers and precise quantification. While the proposed etymological link to `{{H8159}}` (shaʻah) suggests a "turning" or "looking," this connection is largely speculative and does not typically inform the theological interpretation of the number itself. Rather, its significance lies in its contribution to the meticulous detail characteristic of biblical accounts.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H8672}}` is primarily found in its contribution to the Bible's overall emphasis on divine order, precision, and historical reliability. While "nine" is not a number imbued with deep symbolic meaning like "seven" (divine completeness) or "twelve" (governmental perfection), its consistent use for exact counting underscores several theological principles:
* **Divine Order:** The meticulous use of numbers, including "nine," in chronological markers, genealogies, and measurements, reflects God's ordered creation and His sovereign control over time and history. It speaks to a universe governed by design, not chaos.
* **Accuracy and Truthfulness:** The precise numerical details lend credibility and historical grounding to the biblical narrative. It suggests that the events recorded are not vague myths but historically verifiable occurrences, emphasizing the truthfulness of God's Word.
* **Meticulousness of God's Plan:** The specific counting of years, people, or items highlights the careful and intentional nature of God's dealings with humanity. Every detail, though seemingly small, contributes to the unfolding of His grand redemptive plan.
Thus, while "nine" may lack overt symbolic weight, its presence reinforces the Bible's character as a reliable and divinely inspired record.
### Summary
`{{H8672}}` (têshaʻ) denotes the cardinal number "nine" or the ordinal "ninth" in the Hebrew Bible. Its primary function is to provide precise numerical information, appearing consistently in chronological markers, genealogical records, and general enumeration. While not laden with deep symbolic meaning like other biblical numbers, its consistent use underscores the divine attributes of order, precision, and the historical reliability of God's Word. The meticulous detail conveyed through numbers like "nine" contributes to the biblical narrative's factual grounding, reflecting the intentional and sovereign nature of God's interaction with His creation and His meticulously unfolding plan of salvation.
TRV