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H818 · Hebrew · Old Testament
אָשֵׁם
Ashem
Adjective
Guilty, held guilty

Definition

The Hebrew adjective ashem means 'guilty' — the objective legal and moral status of guilt before God, not merely a subjective feeling. It is closely related to the noun asham (H817, 'guilt offering') and the verb asham (H816).

Usage & Theological Significance

The asham (guilt offering) system in Leviticus was Israel's divinely prescribed mechanism for addressing trespass and breach of trust. The one who was ashem — objectively guilty — was required to bring restitution plus a sacrifice.

Isaiah 53:10 uses the cognate noun in its climactic declaration: 'the LORD makes his life a guilt offering (asham).' The Servant bears Israel's guilt — substitutionary atonement, foreshadowed in Levitical law and fulfilled in Christ.

Key Bible Verses

Leviticus 4:13 If the whole Israelite community sins unintentionally, even though the community is unaware of the matter, they are guilty.
Ezra 10:19 As they were guilty, they offered a ram from the flock as a guilt offering.
Isaiah 53:10 Though the LORD makes his life a guilt offering, he will see his offspring and prolong his days.
Genesis 42:21 Surely we are being punished because of our brother. We saw how distressed he was but we would not listen.
Numbers 5:6 Any man or woman who wrongs another in any way and so is unfaithful to the LORD is guilty.

Related Words

External Resources

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