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H7931 · Hebrew · Old Testament
שָׁכַן
shakan
Verb
to dwell, settle, tabernacle

Definition

To dwell or settle in a place — used especially of God's dwelling among his people. The divine presence that 'tabernacled' (shakan) with Israel gives us the word shekinah (though this word itself is post-biblical).

Usage & Theological Significance

God's desire to dwell among his people is the golden thread of Scripture: Eden > Tabernacle > Temple > Incarnation > New Jerusalem. Each is a form of divine shakan.

Key Bible Verses

Exodus 25:8 Let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell [shakan] in their midst.
Psalm 85:9 Salvation is near...that glory may dwell [shakan] in our land.
John 1:14 The Word became flesh and dwelt among us [eskēnōsen — tabernacled].

Word Study

John 1:14 uses the Greek verb skēnoō (to tabernacle/pitch tent) — a deliberate echo of shakan. Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of God's long desire to dwell with his people.

Related Words

External Resources

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