### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bôqer**, represented by `{{H1242}}`, refers to the **morning** or **dawn**. It appears **205 times** across **189 unique verses**, marking its importance in biblical timekeeping and theology. Stemming from a root meaning the 'break of day', it signifies not only the start of a new day but also a pivotal time for divine action, human worship, and new beginnings.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H1242}}` is fundamental to structuring time. The creation account establishes a daily rhythm with the recurring phrase "the evening and the **morning**" ([[Genesis 1:5]], [[Genesis 1:31]]). It is frequently depicted as a time for significant action, whether rising early to worship [[1 Samuel 1:19]] or to carry out a task [[Genesis 21:14]]. It is also the designated time for specific religious duties, such as the daily burnt offering [[Leviticus 6:12]] and the execution of judgment [[Jeremiah 21:12]]. The word can also simply mean "morrow" or the next day, as when the LORD promises to reveal His chosen ones [[Numbers 16:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the concept of morning by contrast and association:
* `{{H6153}}` **ʻereb** (evening): As the counterpart to morning, it frames the biblical day. The two words are used together to mark the completion of God's creative acts [[Genesis 1:31]].
* `{{H3915}}` **layil** (night): This term for the time of darkness often stands in contrast to the hope and activity of the morning, as in declaring God's lovingkindness in the **morning** and his faithfulness every **night** [[Psalms 92:2]].
* `{{H7925}}` **shâkam** (to rise early): This verb is frequently used with `{{H1242}}` to describe purposeful action at the start of the day, such as when the people of Judah **rose early in the morning** to seek God's guidance [[2 Chronicles 20:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1242}}` is significant, highlighting it as a special time in the relationship between God and humanity.
* **Divine Faithfulness and Action:** The morning is consistently portrayed as a time of divine intervention and provision. God's mercies are described as "new every **morning**" [[Lamentations 3:23]], his help arrives "right **early**" [[Psalms 46:5]], and he brings his judgment to light every **morning** [[Zephaniah 3:5]].
* **A Time for Worship and Prayer:** It is the prescribed time for seeking God. David directs his prayer to God in the **morning** [[Psalms 5:3]], and the Levites were to stand "every **morning** to thank and praise the LORD" [[1 Chronicles 23:30]]. Sacrificial duties were also performed in the **morning** [[Leviticus 6:12]].
* **Symbol of Hope and Renewal:** The arrival of morning symbolizes a transition from darkness and trouble to light and joy. This is powerfully captured in the assurance that "weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the **morning**" [[Psalms 30:5]]. It represents a fresh start, where God can turn "the shadow of death into the **morning**" [[Amos 5:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1242}}` is far more than a simple marker of time. It is a foundational element of the biblical rhythm of life, structuring creation, worship, and divine activity. It serves as a daily reminder of God's faithfulness, a designated time for human devotion, and a powerful symbol of hope and renewal that follows a period of darkness or trouble.
TRV