שֵׁבֶט
Shevet
Scepter, rod, tribe
Shevet (שֵׁבֶט) is a Hebrew word meaning “scepter, rod, tribe,” pronounced “SHEH-vet.” Derived from the root שׁ-ב-ט, shevet appears 190 times in the Hebrew Bible (Strong's H7626).
| Hebrew | שֵׁבֶט |
|---|---|
| Transliteration | Shevet |
| Pronunciation | SHEH-vet |
| Meaning | Scepter, rod, tribe |
| Root Letters | שׁ-ב-ט |
| Occurrences in Hebrew Bible | 190× |
| Key Verse | Genesis 49:10 |
| Strong's Number | H7626 |
| Category | Kingdom & Authority |
One of the most remarkable words in biblical Hebrew is shevet (שֵׁבֶט), because it simultaneously means 'scepter,' 'rod,' and 'tribe' — and all three meanings are deeply connected. A scepter is the symbol of a ruler's authority. A rod is the tool of a shepherd's care. A tribe is a branch of a family tree. In one word, Hebrew encapsulates the biblical vision of leadership: true authority exercised through protective care over a covenant community. The most famous use of shevet is Genesis 49:10, where the dying Jacob prophesies that the scepter will not depart from the tribe of Judah until the ultimate ruler comes. Jewish and Christian scholars alike recognize this as one of the earliest messianic prophecies in the Bible. When you understand shevet, you understand how Scripture views power — not as domination, but as shepherding responsibility.
Key Bible Verse: Genesis 49:10
“The scepter (shevet) shall not depart from Judah, nor the ruler's staff from between his feet, until he to whom it belongs shall come, and to him shall be the obedience of the peoples.”
What Is the Root of Shevet in Hebrew?
Shevet comes from a root meaning 'to extend' or 'branch out.' This explains its triple meaning: a rod extends from the hand, a scepter extends authority, and a tribe branches from a common ancestor.
What Does Shevet Mean in the Bible?
Shevet appears approximately 190 times in the Hebrew Bible. It refers to the twelve tribes of Israel, the rod of discipline (Proverbs 13:24), the shepherd's staff (Psalm 23:4), and the royal scepter (Genesis 49:10, Numbers 24:17).
How Is Shevet Used in Modern Hebrew?
The twelve tribes are called 'shivtei Yisrael' — using the same word as scepter. In modern Hebrew, 'shevet' still means 'tribe' and is also used for a scout troop, preserving the ancient sense of community under shared leadership.
How to Use Shevet in Prayer & Worship
Trust that the Good Shepherd's shevet is wielded for your protection. Like David in Psalm 23, find comfort in knowing that God's power is directed toward defending and guiding His flock.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shevet
How do you say “Scepter” in Hebrew?
“Scepter” in Hebrew is Shevet (שֵׁבֶט), pronounced “SHEH-vet.” Shevet comes from a root meaning 'to extend' or 'branch out.' This explains its triple meaning: a rod extends from the hand, a scepter extends authority, and a tribe branches from a common ancestor.
What does Shevet mean in the Bible?
Shevet (שֵׁבֶט) means “Scepter, rod, tribe” in Biblical Hebrew. Shevet appears approximately 190 times in the Hebrew Bible. It refers to the twelve tribes of Israel, the rod of discipline (Proverbs 13:24), the shepherd's staff (Psalm 23:4), and the royal scepter (Genesis 49:10, Numbers 24:17).
How do you pronounce Shevet?
Shevet is pronounced “SHEH-vet.” The word comes from the Hebrew root שׁ-ב-ט.
How is shevet related to the twelve tribes of Israel?
Each of Jacob's twelve sons became the founder of a shevet (tribe). A tribe is a 'branch' extending from the family tree, carrying the authority and care of its patriarch. The twelve shvatim were not merely ethnic groups but covenant communities under appointed leadership.
What is the messianic significance of Genesis 49:10?
Jacob's prophecy that 'the scepter shall not depart from Judah' until 'he to whom it belongs shall come' is recognized as messianic by both Jewish and Christian interpreters. The ancient Targum Onkelos translates it as referring to 'Messiah.' Christians see fulfillment in Jesus, born of Judah.
Why does Psalm 23 mention a rod (shevet)?
In Psalm 23:4, David draws on his shepherd experience. The shevet was used to fight off predators and count sheep (Leviticus 27:32). It represents God's protective authority — the same word for royal scepter describes the shepherd's defensive weapon.
Sources & Further Study
- Blue Letter Bible — H7626: Shevet
- Bible Gateway — Genesis 49:10 (ESV)
- Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (BDB) — entry for שׁ-ב-ט
More Kingdom & Authority Words
Explore other Hebrew words in the Kingdom & Authority category
Related Hebrew Words
Learn a New Hebrew Word Every Day
Join 12,000+ Christians discovering the depth of Scripture through Biblical Hebrew.
Subscribe Free