### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew particle hêʼ (הֵא), Strong's number `{{H1887}}`, is a primitive interjection primarily conveying the sense of "behold!", "lo!", or "see!". Its fundamental purpose is to draw immediate attention to what follows, serving as a demonstrative particle that directs the listener's or reader's focus. It functions to introduce something significant, unexpected, or to emphasize a declaration, command, or observation. The particle imbues the subsequent statement with a sense of urgency, immediacy, or surprise, signaling that the information presented is noteworthy and requires careful consideration.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
While less frequent than its close cognate `{{H2005}}` (hinnēh), hêʼ operates with a similar force and intent in the Hebrew Bible. Its occurrences consistently highlight crucial moments or pronouncements. For instance, in [[Genesis 47:23]], Joseph uses it to introduce a significant decree concerning the land and its people: "Then Joseph said to the people, 'Behold, I have bought you and your land today for Pharaoh...'" Here, hêʼ underscores the gravity and finality of the transaction.
In divine speech, the particle often precedes a declaration of God's will or a promise. [[Exodus 32:34]] provides an example: "But now go, lead the people to the place of which I have spoken to you. Behold, My angel shall go before you..." Here, hêʼ introduces a divine assurance of guidance and protection, demanding Moses' immediate attention and trust. Similarly, in [[Deuteronomy 1:8]], God declares, "Behold, I have set the land before you; go in and possess the land which the LORD swore to your fathers..." The particle emphasizes the divine gift and the corresponding command to act.
Human usage of hêʼ can express readiness or a sudden realization. In [[Numbers 14:40]], after their rebellion, the Israelites declare, "And they rose early in the morning and went up to the top of the mountain, saying, 'Behold, we are here and will go up to the place which the LORD has promised...'" This usage conveys their presence and a (belated) willingness to obey. The particle thus functions as a linguistic spotlight, drawing attention to a crucial piece of information, a divine directive, or a human response.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word to hêʼ (הֵא) is `{{H2005}}` (hinnēh), which also translates as "behold" or "lo." Many scholars consider hêʼ to be an older or more primitive form, or a direct cognate, of hinnēh. Both particles serve the same core function of drawing attention, though hinnēh is far more prevalent. The semantic range and contextual applications of both particles largely overlap, indicating a shared linguistic heritage and purpose. The concept of "beholding" or "seeing" is central to these particles, extending beyond mere visual perception to encompass understanding, awareness, and acknowledgment. They are closely tied to the broader biblical themes of divine revelation, human perception of God's acts, and the call to attention and response.
### Theological Significance
The particle hêʼ (הֵא), though small, carries significant theological weight. When employed by God, it serves as a divine spotlight, directing humanity's gaze and attention to His sovereign actions, immutable promises, or impending judgments. It underscores the certainty, immediacy, and personal nature of God's word. "Behold, I am doing a new thing" (cf. [[Isaiah 43:19]], though using hinnēh) encapsulates this divine declaration, demanding an immediate and faith-filled apprehension. The use of hêʼ often precedes a moment of divine intervention or a pivotal statement that shapes redemptive history. It calls for an active, receptive posture from the hearer, inviting them to witness and respond to God's unfolding plan. In instances where humans use hêʼ, it can reflect a recognition of God's presence, a declaration of commitment, or an expression of profound realization, highlighting the human response to divine truth. It is a particle that implicitly calls for reverence and attentiveness to the sacred.
### Summary
hêʼ (הֵא), Strong's number `{{H1887}}`, is a primitive Hebrew particle functioning as an interjection meaning "behold," "lo," or "see." Its primary role is to draw immediate and emphatic attention to the subsequent statement, signaling its importance or urgency. Contextual analysis reveals its use in both divine and human speech, introducing critical declarations, commands, or expressions of presence and realization. It shares a close semantic and functional relationship with `{{H2005}}` (hinnēh). Theologically, hêʼ serves to highlight the certainty and immediacy of God's word and actions, calling for an attentive and responsive posture from humanity. It acts as a linguistic marker, urging the listener to behold and consider the profound truths being revealed.
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