תְּשׁוּרָה

תְּשׁוּרָה

a gift

Definition

The Hebrew noun תְּשׁוּרָה (tᵉshûwrâh) refers specifically to a gift or present, often one brought when visiting someone. It denotes a tangible offering carried to another person, typically as a gesture of goodwill, respect, or to gain favor. In its single biblical occurrence in 1 Samuel 9:7, it describes the modest gift Saul suggests taking to the 'man of God' (Samuel) to inquire about their lost donkeys. The term implies something presented upon arrival, aligning with its etymological connection to the idea of 'coming' or 'arriving' with an offering.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the Old Testament, in 1 Samuel 9:7. In this context, Saul, concerned they have no gift to bring to the prophet Samuel, tells his servant, 'Behold, if we go, what shall we bring the man? for the bread is spent in our vessels, and there is not a present (תְּשׁוּרָה) to bring to the man of God: what have we?' The usage highlights the cultural expectation of bringing a gift when seeking counsel or favor from a respected figure, even a modest one.

Etymology

The noun תְּשׁוּרָה derives from the root שׁוּר (shûr, H7788), which carries the basic meaning 'to look, regard' but also 'to travel, journey' or 'to come.' In this derived form, the sense is connected to the idea of 'arrival'—a gift one brings upon coming to visit someone. Cognates in other Semitic languages support the meaning of a gift or offering presented by a visitor.

Semantic Range

While the word itself is not heavily theological, its single use in 1 Samuel 9:7 provides insight into the cultural and relational dynamics of seeking divine guidance. The concern over having no תְּשׁוּרָה for the prophet underscores the importance of honor, respect, and proper protocol when approaching God's representative. It subtly contrasts human notions of bringing a tangible gift with the prophet's later emphasis on obedience as the true offering God desires (cf. 1 Samuel 15:22). Understanding this term enriches the narrative by highlighting Saul's initial conventional piety before his later failures. In ancient Near Eastern culture, it was customary to bring a gift when visiting a person of status, especially a seer or prophet, as a sign of respect and to secure their goodwill. The gift did not need to be extravagant; even a small offering acknowledged the recipient's position and the visitor's dependence. Saul's anxiety in 1 Samuel 9:7 reflects this social norm—arriving empty-handed was considered improper and potentially disadvantageous when seeking a favor or oracle. מִנְחָה (minchâh, H4503) — a gift, offering, or tribute, often used for grain offerings to God or presents to people. שַׁחַד (shachad, H7810) — a gift, but often with a connotation of a bribe or corrupting present. מַתָּן (mattân, H4979) — a general term for a gift or present.

Word Details