שֵׁרוּת

שֵׁרוּת

freedom

Definition

The Hebrew noun שֵׁרוּת (shêrûwth) primarily denotes a state of freedom or liberty, specifically the condition of being released from servitude or constraint. In its sole biblical occurrence in Jeremiah 15:11, it is translated as 'remnant' in the KJV, but modern translations like the ESV render it as 'good,' and the NIV as 'prosperity,' reflecting a contextual sense of a favorable, liberated condition granted by God. The core concept remains tied to the idea of being set free or spared, resulting in a preserved, secure state.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the Old Testament, in Jeremiah 15:11. God speaks to Jeremiah, promising that a 'remnant' or a state of 'good' (שֵׁרוּת) will be granted to him amid judgment, indicating a preserved, favorable outcome. The context is one of divine assurance of survival and blessing for the prophet, contrasting with the coming disaster for the people.

Etymology

שֵׁרוּת (shêrûwth) is derived from the root שָׁרָה (sharah, H8281), meaning 'to loosen, set free, or remain over.' It is an abbreviated or nominal form, directly relating to the concept of being released or left over. The development from the root's action ('to set free') to the noun's state ('freedom' or 'remnant') is clear, connecting liberation with what is preserved afterward.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it encapsulates God's grace in preserving and liberating His faithful servants even amidst widespread judgment. In Jeremiah 15:11, it highlights the theme of a faithful remnant—a concept central to biblical prophecy where God sustains a people for Himself. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the reading of Jeremiah by emphasizing that divine 'good' or 'prosperity' is fundamentally tied to the freedom and security found in God's covenant faithfulness. In ancient Israelite culture, freedom (שֵׁרוּת) from slavery, debt, or oppression was a profound social and religious ideal, often associated with Jubilee laws (Leviticus 25). The term's use in Jeremiah would resonate with this longing for release, but here it is applied spiritually to the prophet's personal preservation by God, differing from a purely political or economic understanding. דְּרוֹר (deror, H1865) — freedom, especially in the context of Jubilee release or liberty proclamation. חֵפֶשׁ (chepesh, H2666) — freedom, often implying exemption from duty or service. פְּלֵיטָה (peletah, H6413) — escape, deliverance, focusing on the act of being rescued to become a remnant.

Word Details