שָׁכַם

From the study of Isaiah 5:11

Range of meaning

In the Hiphil (causative stem) it means 'to rise early, to start early', and often 'to do something early and eagerly'. It may be connected with shekhem 'shoulder', from loading pack animals at dawn for a journey. That etymology is uncertain.

Against the English

'Rise early in the morning' is accurate. English does not convey that in Hebrew the phrase often signals zeal and eagerness.

Used elsewhere in the period

Abraham rises early to obey God (Genesis 22:3). Jeremiah repeatedly has God 'rising early and sending' his prophets, meaning persistently and eagerly (Jeremiah 7:13, 25; 25:4). In Zephaniah 3:7 Israel 'rose early' to corrupt its deeds.

From the study of Genesis 31:55

Range of meaning

In the causative form, to rise early, to do something promptly and on purpose at first light; often before a journey, a sacrifice or a decisive act (Gen 19:27; 21:14; 22:3; 28:18). Later prophets use it figuratively: God 'rising early' to send prophets means he did so persistently (Jer 7:13, 25).

Against the English

'Rose early' is accurate. Some connect the verb with shekem, 'shoulder', as if from loading pack animals at dawn, but that origin is uncertain and plays no part in the meaning here.

Used elsewhere in the period

Frequent in Genesis for departure scenes: Abraham (21:14; 22:3), Jacob at Bethel (28:18), Abimelech (20:8).

From the study of Genesis 28:18

Range of meaning

In the form used here, 'to rise early, start early'. It often signals prompt, resolute action, frequently after a divine message (Gen 19:27; 20:8; 21:14; 22:3; Exod 24:4; Josh 3:1). Elsewhere it comes to mean doing something persistently or urgently (Jer 7:13, 'rising early and speaking').

Against the English

'Rose up early' (KJV, WEB) and 'early the next morning' (BSB) are accurate. The idiom's sense of determination is easy to miss.

Used elsewhere in the period

Abraham 'rose early' to obey God in Gen 22:3, and Moses 'rose early' to build an altar and set up twelve standing stones at Sinai in Exod 24:4, a close parallel.