שִׁשִּׁי

sixth, ord. or (feminine) fractional

Definition

The Hebrew word שִׁשִּׁי (shishshîy) is an ordinal number meaning 'sixth,' used to indicate position in a sequence. It can also function as a fractional noun meaning 'a sixth part' when used in a feminine form, as seen in Exodus 16:5 where the Israelites are instructed to gather a double portion on the sixth day. In its ordinal sense, it marks the sixth day of creation (Genesis 1:31), the sixth year in agricultural cycles (Leviticus 25:21), and the sixth position in lists, such as the offerings of tribal leaders (Numbers 7:42). The term consistently denotes either sequential order or a proportional division.

Biblical Usage

שִׁשִּׁי appears 26 times across the Pentateuch, primarily in narrative and legal texts. It is used to sequence days (Genesis 1:31, Exodus 16:5, 22, 29), years (Leviticus 25:21), and items in ritual contexts (Exodus 26:9, Numbers 7:42). A pattern emerges in Exodus 16, where the 'sixth day' is highlighted for Sabbath preparation, emphasizing its role in Israel's weekly rhythm. The fractional usage is less common but appears in Exodus 16:5 regarding food portions.

Etymology

Derived from the cardinal number שֵׁשׁ (shēsh, H8337), meaning 'six,' through the addition of the ordinal suffix -ִי (-î). This follows a standard Hebrew pattern for forming ordinal numbers (e.g., רִאשׁוֹן, rishôn, 'first' from אֶחָד, echad, 'one'). Cognates exist in other Semitic languages, such as Aramaic שִׁתָּא (shittā) and Arabic sitta, all meaning 'six.'

Semantic Range

The 'sixth' holds theological significance as the culmination of God's creative work (Genesis 1:31), preceding the Sabbath rest. In Exodus 16, the sixth day establishes a pattern of provision and trust, instructing Israel to gather double manna in anticipation of the Sabbath. This ordains a rhythm of work and rest, pointing to divine order and dependence on God. Understanding שִׁשִּׁי enriches reading by highlighting how numerical sequencing in Scripture often carries covenantal and liturgical importance.

In ancient Israelite culture, the sixth day was pragmatically vital for Sabbath preparation, as no work could be done on the seventh. The fractional 'sixth part' in Exodus 16:5 reflects a system of measured daily sustenance in the wilderness. Ordinal numbers like שִׁשִּׁי were used in administrative and religious records to maintain order in rituals, calendars, and tribal allocations, reflecting a society structured around divine commandments.

שֵׁשׁ (shēsh, H8337) — the cardinal number 'six,' whereas שִׁשִּׁי is the ordinal 'sixth.' שִׁשָּׁה (shishshâ, H8337) — an alternate masculine form of 'six,' but not ordinal. שִׁשִּׁים (shishshîm, H8346) — the number 'sixty,' a different cardinal value.

Word Details

Scripture References