שָׁתָה

שָׁתָה

to imbibe (literally or figuratively)

Definition

The Hebrew verb שָׁתָה (shâthâh) fundamentally means 'to drink,' describing the physical act of consuming liquids, as when Abraham's servant asks for water at the well (Genesis 24:14, 18). Beyond the literal, it is used figuratively for experiencing God's judgment, such as drinking the cup of His wrath (Jeremiah 25:15-16). It also extends to the idea of absorbing or receiving something, like drinking in words or instruction (Job 15:16). In its intensive form, it can denote excessive drinking, leading to drunkenness, as seen with Noah (Genesis 9:21).

Biblical Usage

שָׁתָה appears 193 times across all major sections of the Old Testament. It is common in narrative for literal drinking (e.g., Genesis 24), in wisdom literature for metaphorical consumption (Proverbs 4:17), and in prophetic books for the imagery of divine judgment (Isaiah 51:17, Jeremiah 25:15). A pattern emerges where drinking is often tied to covenants (feasts), divine provision, or covenantal curses.

Etymology

It is a primitive root. While sometimes noted as an intensive form of שָׁקָה (H8248, shâqâh, 'to give to drink'), שָׁתָה typically emphasizes the action of the drinker consuming, whereas שָׁקָה often focuses on the act of causing or giving to drink. Cognates exist in other Semitic languages with similar meanings for drinking.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it connects physical sustenance to spiritual realities. It is central to the imagery of covenant meals, divine blessing (Psalm 23:5), and judgment. The concept of 'drinking' God's wrath or cup of staggering is a powerful metaphor for experiencing the consequences of sin (Habakkuk 2:16). Understanding this range enriches reading, showing how a simple act can symbolize deep spiritual reception or retribution. In ancient Israel, sharing a drink was a gesture of hospitality and peace, integral to social and covenant ceremonies. Drinking water, wine, or milk was not merely biological but carried social weight—refusal could be an insult, and excess (drunkenness) was a moral failure. The 'cup' one drank from often symbolized one's divinely appointed portion, whether of blessing or fate. שָׁקָה (shâqâh, H8248) — focuses on giving a drink or watering; often causative. לָעַג (lâ‛ag, H3932) — to slurp, mock; a different action sometimes contextually linked to drinking scorn.

Word Details