שִׁכּוֹר

שִׁכּוֹר

intoxicated, as astate or a habit

Definition

The Hebrew noun שִׁכּוֹר (shikkôwr) describes a person who is intoxicated or drunk, either as a temporary state or a habitual condition. It primarily refers to physical drunkenness from alcoholic beverages, as seen when Nabal is described as 'very drunk' (1 Samuel 25:36) and King Elah is assassinated while 'drunk' (1 Kings 16:9). The word can also be used metaphorically to depict a state of staggering confusion or disorientation, not from wine but from divine judgment or overwhelming circumstances, such as the leaders of Egypt being portrayed as 'drunken' in their confused counsel (Isaiah 19:14).

Biblical Usage

This word is used 13 times in the Old Testament, appearing in narrative, poetic, and prophetic books. In historical narratives like 1 Samuel and 1 Kings, it describes literal drunkenness that leads to vulnerability and poor judgment (1 Samuel 25:36, 1 Kings 16:9, 20:16). In wisdom and poetic literature, it illustrates folly (Proverbs 26:9) or the disorienting power of God over creation (Job 12:25, Psalm 107:27). The prophetic book of Isaiah uses it metaphorically for national confusion as an act of divine judgment (Isaiah 19:14).

Etymology

The noun שִׁכּוֹר (shikkôwr) is derived from the root שָׁכַר (shakhar, H7937), which means 'to become drunk' or 'to be intoxicated.' This root is the basis for related words like 'strong drink' (שֵׁכָר, shekhar). The noun form indicates a person characterized by this state, either habitually (a drunkard) or situationally (a drunk person).

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it often highlights the consequences of drunkenness, which is consistently portrayed negatively in Scripture, leading to folly, vulnerability, and sin. It serves as a warning against the loss of self-control (Proverbs 23:29-35). Furthermore, its metaphorical use in passages like Isaiah 19:14 connects human confusion and poor leadership directly to the sovereign judgment of God, showing that spiritual disorientation can be a divine act against pride. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches reading by clarifying when a text describes literal intoxication versus a metaphor for spiritual or national bewilderment under God's hand. In ancient Israelite culture, wine was a common part of diet and celebration, but drunkenness was socially and religiously condemned. A שִׁכּוֹר was seen as lacking self-control and honor, becoming a figure of mockery and danger. The state made one physically vulnerable (as in the assassination of King Elah) and morally irresponsible. This contrasts with some modern, more permissive attitudes toward excessive drinking. The metaphorical extension to leaders 'staggering' in judgment would resonate in a culture that prized wise and clear-headed leadership. שָׁתָה (shathah, H8354) — a more general verb meaning 'to drink,' not necessarily to excess. רָוָה (ravah, H7301) — a verb meaning 'to be saturated' or 'drunk,' often with a sense of being drenched or satisfied. תִּרְשָׁע (tirshah, H7943) — a rare noun for 'intoxicating drink' or 'strong drink,' focusing on the beverage itself.

Word Details