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H7650 · Hebrew · Old Testament
שָׁבַע
shaba
Verb
to swear, take an oath

Definition

To bind oneself with a solemn oath — literally, to 'seven oneself' (from sheva, seven). In the ancient Near East, oaths sealed covenants, and seven was the number of completion/perfection.

Usage & Theological Significance

God himself swears oaths (Gen 22:16; Heb 6:13) — the highest form of divine commitment, binding himself by his own name since there is no greater authority. Human oaths called on God as witness.

Key Bible Verses

Genesis 22:16 By myself I have sworn [shaba], declares the LORD.
Hebrews 6:13 Since God had no one greater by whom to swear, he swore by himself.
Psalm 110:4 The LORD has sworn [shaba] and will not change his mind: 'You are a priest forever.'

Word Study

God's oath-swearing is unique: he binds himself by his own name because there is no higher authority. Hebrews 6:17-18 says God interposed with an oath so that 'we who have fled for refuge might have strong encouragement.'

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