שְׁתִי
intoxicaion
Definition
The Hebrew noun שְׁתִי (shᵉthîy) refers to a state of intoxication or drunkenness. It specifically denotes the condition resulting from the consumption of intoxicating drink. In its sole biblical occurrence, it describes a negative social condition contrasted with proper conduct for leadership. The word captures the physical and behavioral state of being under the influence, associated with loss of control and poor judgment.
Biblical Usage
This word is used only once in the Old Testament, in Ecclesiastes 10:17. It appears in a proverbial saying that contrasts the blessedness of a land whose nobles feast at the proper time for strength (not for drunkenness) with the woe of a land whose prince is given to revelry. The context is wisdom literature, offering a critique of intemperance, especially among rulers, and promoting self-control and timely conduct.
Etymology
Derived from the root verb שָׁתָה (shâthâh, H8354), meaning 'to drink.' The noun שְׁתִי is formed from this root, indicating the state or result of the action—specifically, the condition of having drunk to excess. Cognate words in related Semitic languages also carry meanings associated with drinking.
Semantic Range
Though used only once, this word contributes to the Bible's consistent theological warning against drunkenness and lack of self-control, particularly for those in authority. It underscores the wisdom theme that righteous living and stable governance require temperance and discernment (Proverbs 31:4-5). Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the reading of Ecclesiastes 10:17 by highlighting the direct link between the act of drinking (שָׁתָה) and its debilitating consequence (שְׁתִי), reinforcing the ethical contrast presented in the verse.
In ancient Israelite culture, wine was a common part of diet and celebration, but excessive drinking that led to שְׁתִי was condemned, especially for leaders and priests (Leviticus 10:9, Proverbs 31:4-5). The condemnation in Ecclesiastes reflects a wisdom tradition that valued order, self-discipline, and the proper use of time, viewing public drunkenness in rulers as a sign of societal decay and foolishness.
שִׁכָּרוֹן (shikkārôn, H7943) — a stronger term often implying staggering or complete intoxication. רַעַל (raʿal, H7570) — a rare term for reeling or trembling from drink. שָׁתָה (shâthâh, H8354) — the root verb meaning 'to drink,' focusing on the action rather than the state.
Word Details
How this works
Hebrew definitions are from Brown-Driver-Briggs (1906) and Strong's Exhaustive Concordance (1890), both public domain. BDB was groundbreaking for its era but reflects 19th-century assumptions about Semitic etymology. Modern scholarship (HALOT, DCH) has revised many entries. Use these definitions as a starting point for exploration, not as the final word on a term's meaning in context.
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