### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shᵉmûwʻâh**, represented by `{{H8052}}`, refers to **something heard**, such as an announcement, report, or tidings. It appears 27 times across 24 unique verses in the Bible. Its core meaning encompasses any form of communicated information, from a rumor or piece of news to divinely inspired doctrine or fame.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H8052}}` is used to describe information that carries significant weight and elicits a strong response. It can be **"good news"** which is compared to cold water for a thirsty soul [[Proverbs 25:25]], or **"evil tidings"** that cause fear and faintheartedness ([[Psalms 112:7]], [[Jeremiah 49:23]]). A **"rumour"** from the LORD can be a tool to alter the plans of a king [[2 Kings 19:7]]. The word is also used for a prophetic **"report"** that demands belief, as in the question, "Who hath believed our **report**?" [[Isaiah 53:1]]. The arrival of **"tidings"** can cause a profound physical and emotional reaction, making every heart melt and every spirit faint [[Ezekiel 21:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the concept of receiving and responding to a report:
* `{{H8085}}` **shâmaʻ** (to hear intelligently): As the root concept of `{{H8052}}`, this verb signifies the act of hearing. A report is only impactful if it is heard, as when Eli hears the "no good **report**" about his sons [[1 Samuel 2:24]].
* `{{H539}}` **ʼâman** (to trust or believe): This word describes the critical response of faith. The **report** about the LORD's power requires belief [[Isaiah 53:1]], and the Queen of Sheba did not **believe** the words about Solomon's wisdom until she came and saw for herself, exceeding the **fame** she had heard [[1 Kings 10:7]].
* `{{H3372}}` **yârêʼ** (to fear): This highlights the emotional response to a threatening **rumour**. The people are warned not to **fear** the **rumour** that will be heard in the land [[Jeremiah 51:46]], while the righteous are promised they will not be **afraid** of evil **tidings** [[Psalms 112:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8052}}` is demonstrated by its impact on both human and divine affairs.
* **The Power of a Divine Message:** A **rumour** or **report** originating from God is not idle talk; it is an active force. God sends a **rumour** to make a king return to his own land to face judgment [[Isaiah 37:7]]. Tidings of God's coming judgment are so certain that they cause every heart to melt and all hands to become feeble [[Ezekiel 21:7]].
* **The Nature of Good and Evil News:** The word distinguishes between reports that bring life and those that bring distress. A **good report** can rejoice the heart and make the bones fat [[Proverbs 15:30]], while **evil tidings** bring sorrow and faintheartedness [[Jeremiah 49:23]].
* **Revelation and Doctrine:** Beyond simple news, `{{H8052}}` can signify divine teaching. Isaiah asks who can be made to understand **"doctrine"** [[Isaiah 28:9]], and later presents a **"report"** concerning the revealed arm of the LORD that requires faith to be accepted [[Isaiah 53:1]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8052}}` is a dynamic term for any communicated message. It is more than just news; it is a word that carries consequences, capable of inspiring joy or terror, hope or despair. From a rumor that redirects armies to a prophetic report that defines salvation, **shᵉmûwʻâh** illustrates that what is heard has the power to shape destinies, test faith, and reveal the very intentions of God.
TRV