שׁוּר (shur)
shur
wall; row
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun shur primarily denotes a wall, but its semantic range extends to a row or line, particularly in agricultural contexts like rows of olive trees or vines. This dual meaning reflects the physical reality of structured boundaries and organized plantings found in ancient Near Eastern life. The word appears only three times in the Hebrew Bible, making it a rare term with specific contextual weight.
In its usage, shur often conveys the idea of a fortified barrier or a distinct line of separation. For instance, in Genesis 37:24, the pit into which Joseph was thrown is described as having walls, emphasizing its depth and isolation. Similarly, in Job 18:6, the light of the wicked’s tent is extinguished, and his steps are confined by shur, suggesting a trap or enclosure that limits movement. These examples highlight the word’s association with confinement and defined spaces.
The term’s connection to rows of crops further enriches its meaning, linking human orderliness with divine provision. While less common than other words for walls or barriers, shur offers a nuanced view of boundaries—whether as protective structures or as markers of cultivated land. Its rarity underscores the precision with which biblical authors employed language to convey specific images and ideas.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word shur appears in Scripture with two distinct images: a sturdy wall and an orderly row. In Genesis 49:22, Joseph is described as a fruitful vine whose branches run over the wall. This picture suggests that God’s blessings are so abundant they overflow every boundary we set for ourselves. It reminds us that divine provision often exceeds our limited expectations.
Alternatively, shur can mean a row or line of crops, reflecting careful cultivation and order. In Job 24:11, laborers press oil within these walls, highlighting the hard work involved in sustaining life. This usage points to the dignity of human effort when aligned with God’s created order. Whether as a barrier or a planted row, shur speaks to structure—whether protective or productive—in our daily lives.
When we face confinement or limitation, this rare word invites reflection on how God uses boundaries. Sometimes walls protect us; other times they define the space where we grow. Trusting in His design helps us find peace in both protection and provision.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- a wall2×
- rows/ their1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- שֽׁוּר\׃2×
- שׁוּרֹתָ֥/ם1×
Key Verses
-
Genesis 49:22
“Joseph is a fruitful vine, a fruitful vine by a spring. His branches run over the wall.
This verse uses shur to describe a wall over which Joseph’s branches run, emphasizing the overflow of his blessing beyond normal limits.
-
II Samuel 22:30
For by you, I run against a troop. By my God, I leap over a wall.
Here shur refers to a wall that David leaps over by God’s strength, illustrating divine empowerment to overcome obstacles.
-
Job 24:11
They make oil within the walls of these men. They tread wine presses, and suffer thirst.
The term denotes walls or enclosures where laborers press oil, showing the structured environment of agricultural work and suffering.