שָׂבֵעַ

שָׂבֵעַ

satiated (in a pleasant or disagreeable sense)

Definition

The Hebrew word שָׂבֵעַ describes a state of being fully satisfied, satiated, or filled to capacity. It most often conveys the positive sense of contentment and fulfillment, such as Abraham dying 'old and full of years' (Genesis 25:8), indicating a life completed and satisfied. However, it can also carry a negative connotation of being overfilled or wearied, as in Job's lament that he is 'full of disgrace' (Job 10:15). This dual capacity allows it to describe both physical satisfaction (like being full of food) and emotional or experiential fullness.

Biblical Usage

This word is used across narrative, poetic, and wisdom literature to depict satisfaction. In historical books like Genesis and 1 Chronicles, it describes a life fully lived (Genesis 25:8, 1 Chronicles 29:28). In poetry, it appears in blessings (Deuteronomy 33:23) and contrasts, like Hannah's song where the hungry and the 'full' (1 Samuel 2:5) experience reversal. In Job, it expresses both negative saturation with trouble (Job 14:1) and the positive conclusion of a life (Job 42:17, LXX).

Etymology

Derived from the root שָׂבַע (śāḇaʿ, H7646), meaning 'to be satisfied, sated, or have enough.' This root is common in Semitic languages, relating to concepts of abundance and sufficiency. שָׂבֵעַ is the adjective or participial form, describing the state resulting from the verb's action.

Semantic Range

This word enriches the biblical theme of divine provision and the human condition of desire. It portrays the ideal of contentment found in God's blessings, as seen in the 'full' life granted to the patriarchs. The contrast between positive satisfaction and negative surfeit warns against self-sufficiency apart from God. Understanding this range highlights the difference between God-given fulfillment, which leads to praise (1 Samuel 2:5), and worldly satiation, which can lead to complacency or weariness. In an ancient agrarian society where food security was not guaranteed, being 'full' or 'satiated' was a significant marker of blessing and prosperity. A 'full' life (Genesis 25:8) meant one had lived to see God's promises of descendants and provision realized, which was a high cultural value. The negative sense of being overfilled reflects the wisdom tradition's caution against excess. שָׂבַע (śāḇaʿ, H7646) — the root verb meaning 'to be satisfied.' מָלֵא (mālēʾ, H4390) — 'full,' often more neutral, describing a container or quantity. רָוֶה (rāweh, H7301) — 'saturated, watered,' often for liquids.

Word Details