How To Fix GS047 - Recursive set definitions are not supported

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: GS - Sets

• Message number: 047

• Message text: Recursive set definitions are not supported

What causes this issue?

You have tried to create a single set that would contain itself
(possibly indirectly).

System Response

The system rejects the set.

How to fix this error?

Remove the sub-set that caused the recursive set definition from the
single set.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message GS047 - Recursive set definitions are not supported ?

  The SAP error message GS047, which states "Recursive set definitions are not supported," typically occurs in the context of SAP ABAP programming, particularly when dealing with set definitions in queries or data retrieval processes. This error indicates that there is an attempt to define a set that references itself, leading to a recursive loop that the system cannot resolve.
  Cause:
  The primary cause of this error is the creation of a set definition that refers back to itself either directly or indirectly. This can happen in various scenarios, such as:
  
  Self-referencing Queries: When a query or a data selection set is defined in such a way that it includes itself in its own definition.
  Incorrect Logic in Data Retrieval: If the logic used to define the set is flawed, leading to a situation where the set tries to include itself.
  Misconfiguration: In some cases, it could be due to misconfiguration in the data model or the way relationships are defined between different data entities.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the GS047 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Review Set Definitions: Check the set definitions in your query or data retrieval logic. Ensure that no set is defined in a way that it references itself.
  
  
  Refactor Logic: If you find that a set is self-referencing, refactor the logic to eliminate the recursive reference. This may involve creating separate sets or modifying the conditions under which the sets are defined.
  
  
  Use Alternative Approaches: If the logic inherently requires recursion, consider using alternative approaches such as loops or iterative methods to achieve the desired outcome without creating a recursive set.
  
  
  Testing: After making changes, thoroughly test the modified logic to ensure that it works as expected and does not produce the GS047 error.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or community forums for additional insights or similar cases that may provide guidance on resolving this error.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific patches or updates related to this error message.
  ABAP Programming Guidelines: Familiarize yourself with best practices in ABAP programming to avoid common pitfalls that lead to such errors.
  Community Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or support channels where other developers may have encountered and resolved similar issues.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the GS047 error and implement a solution to resolve it.