13: Shemaya — ܫܡܝܐ

1. Term: Shemaya — ܫܡܝܐ

Pronunciation: she-MAH-ya
Meaning: Heaven; the sky or the dwelling place of God.

2. Biblical Usage:

  • Used extensively in the Peshitta to denote both the physical heavens and the spiritual realm where God resides.
  • Often contrasts with earth (ar’a) and is the focus of prayers and divine activity.

3. Example Verse:

  • Matthew 6:9 — “Abun d’bashmaya…”
    (“Our Father who art in heaven…”)
  • Psalm 19:1 — “Shemaya mesaprin kavod alaha.”
    (“The heavens declare the glory of God.”)

4. Theological Significance:

  • Shemaya represents the transcendence and majesty of God’s presence.
  • Central to Syriac spirituality and eschatology as the ultimate dwelling place of the faithful.
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