שִׁיבָה
residence
Definition
The noun שִׁיבָה (shîybâh) refers to a place of dwelling or residence, specifically denoting the act or state of dwelling in a location. It is derived from the common verb 'to sit, dwell, inhabit' (יָשַׁב, yāshab), and thus carries the sense of settled habitation. In its sole biblical occurrence in 2 Samuel 19:32, it describes the dwelling place of Barzillai the Gileadite, referring to the location where he 'lived' or 'resided.' The word emphasizes a settled, established abode rather than a temporary lodging.
Biblical Usage
This word is used only once in the Old Testament, in 2 Samuel 19:32 (2 Samuel 19:31 in some English versions). It appears in the narrative context of King David's return to Jerusalem after Absalom's rebellion. The aged Barzillai comes to escort the king, and the text mentions his 'residence' (שִׁיבָה) in Rogelim. Its usage is specific to describing a person's established dwelling place within a historical narrative.
Etymology
שִׁיבָה is a feminine noun derived directly from the root יָשַׁב (yāshab, H3427), which means 'to sit down, dwell, remain, inhabit.' This root is one of the primary Hebrew verbs for dwelling and settlement. The noun form שִׁיבָה specifically denotes the state or act of dwelling, the 'sitting' or 'residing' itself. Cognate words appear in other Semitic languages with similar meanings related to sitting and dwelling.
Semantic Range
While the word itself is a simple noun for 'residence,' its single use in 2 Samuel 19:32 is theologically connected to themes of loyalty, covenant friendship, and hospitality. Barzillai's dwelling place is mentioned as part of the story highlighting his faithful support for King David during a time of crisis. Understanding this as his 'established residence' underscores the sacrifice he made in leaving his home to aid the king, enriching the narrative of steadfast loyalty in the biblical tradition.
In the ancient Near Eastern context, a person's 'residence' (שִׁיבָה) was closely tied to their identity, lineage, and inheritance. It represented stability, family roots, and one's place within the community and tribal lands. For Barzillai, a wealthy elder, his residence in Rogelim signified his status and rootedness in Gilead. Leaving it to meet the king was a significant act, demonstrating honor and commitment that went beyond his local obligations.
מוֹשָׁב (môshāb, H4186) — a more common noun for dwelling, habitation, or seat, often used for settlements. נָוֶה (nāweh, H5116) — a pasture, habitation, or pleasant abode, sometimes with idyllic connotations. מִשְׁכָּן (mishkān, H4908) — a dwelling place, often used for the Tabernacle, implying a more temporary or sacred residence.
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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