Hebrew · Strong's H8145
שֵׁנִי
(shay-NEE)
adjective
This term primarily signifies "second" in number or order. It can also refer to something "another" or "other."
The Hebrew adjective *sheniy* most frequently denotes the numerical concept of "second," indicating sequence or order. This can be in relation to time, as seen in "the second day" or "the second month," or to position, such as when referring to a second child or a second object. Its semantic range also extends to signifying "another" or "other," implying distinction from a previous item or person rather than necessarily a numerical order. In some contexts, it can convey the idea of repetition, similar to an adverbial "again." However, the core meaning consistently revolves around the idea of duality or being next in a series. While not bearing significant theological weight on its own, its usage often contributes to narrative structure, highlighting sequential events or distinguishing between multiple entities. For example, in prophetic literature, a "second time" can signify a repeated divine act or intervention. The repetition of divine action, or the distinction between persons or objects, is often conveyed using this term. Its usage therefore is often crucial to understanding the context of a biblical narrative or command in describing order or distinction.
Common English renderings
- second
- another
- other
- again
Key verses
"And it shall come to pass in that day, that the Lord will set his hand again the second time to recover the remnant of his people, that shall remain, from Assyria, and from Egypt, and from Pathros, and from Cush, and from Elam, and from Shinar, and from Hamath, and from the islands of the sea."
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"And he called the name of the first, Jemimah; and the name of the second, Keziah; and the name of the third, Keren-happuch."
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"And it came to pass in the second year, in the second month, on the twentieth day of the month, that the cloud was taken up from over the tabernacle of the testimony."
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"And the name of the second called he Ephraim: For God hath made me fruitful in the land of my affliction."
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"And he went out the second day, and, behold, two men of the Hebrews were striving together: and he said to him that did the wrong, Wherefore smitest thou thy fellow?"
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"And he began to build in the second day of the second month, in the fourth year of his reign."
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Related words