xlit hâlᵉâh corrected to hâlᵉʼâh; from the primitive form of the article (hal); to the distance, i.e. far away; also (of time) thus far; back, beyond, (hence,-) forward, hitherto, thence, forth, yonder.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **hâlᵉʼâh**, represented by `{{H1973}}`, conveys concepts of distance and progression. It appears **16 times** across **16 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning encompasses movement to a place that is **far away**, **beyond** a certain point, or **forward** in time from a specific moment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H1973}}` is used to indicate both spatial and temporal distance. Spatially, it describes being moved **beyond** a boundary, as when Jeremiah prophesies that a king will be cast **beyond** the gates of Jerusalem [[Jeremiah 22:19]]. It also functions as a directional marker, as when Jonathan signals to David that the arrows are **beyond** him [[1 Samuel 20:22]]. Temporally, it signifies a point from which something will continue **forward**, such as God's people knowing Him "from that day and **forward**" [[Ezekiel 39:22]] or an offering being accepted from the eighth day and **thenceforth** [[Leviticus 22:27]]. It can also be a simple command to move away, as in the command to Lot to "Stand **back**" [[Genesis 19:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the actions that result in the state of being **hâlᵉʼâh**:
* `{{H5498}}` **çâchab** (to trail along; draw (out), tear): This verb describes the action of being **drawn** and cast **beyond** the gates of Jerusalem, showing the forceful nature of the displacement [[Jeremiah 22:19]].
* `{{H1540}}` **gâlâh** (to denude... to exile): This term is used for causing people to **go into captivity** to a place **beyond** Damascus, linking `{{H1973}}` to the concept of exile [[Amos 5:27]].
* `{{H2498}}` **châlaph** (to slide by... pass on, spring up, pierce or change): This word is used alongside `{{H1973}}` to instruct Samuel to **go on forward** from a certain place, indicating progression on a journey [[1 Samuel 10:3]].
* `{{H5265}}` **nâçaʻ** (to start on ajourney; remove): This word describes how Israel **journeyed** to set up a tent **beyond** a landmark, tying `{{H1973}}` to the act of nomadic movement [[Genesis 35:21]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H1973}}` carries significant thematic weight in several contexts:
* **Marker of Judgment and Exile:** `{{H1973}}` is used to define the location of judgment, signifying a removal from a place of blessing or familiarity. This is seen in the prophecy of being taken into captivity **beyond** Damascus [[Amos 5:27]] and being cast **beyond** the gates of Jerusalem [[Jeremiah 22:19]].
* **Initiation of a New Era:** The word marks a pivotal moment in time, signaling a new phase in God's relationship with His people. Israel will know the LORD "from that day and **forward**" [[Ezekiel 39:22]], and priestly offerings will be accepted "so **forward**" in the new temple [[Ezekiel 43:27]].
* **Symbol of Divine Direction:** `{{H1973}}` functions as a directional cue in divine communication. It is used as a sign for David that he must flee, when the arrows are **beyond** him [[1 Samuel 20:22]], and as a command to separate holy from profane by scattering fire **yonder** [[Numbers 16:37]].
### Summary
In summary, **hâlᵉʼâh** `{{H1973}}` is a versatile term that signifies movement and position, both physically and chronologically. It defines what is **beyond** a location, **forward** from a point in time, or simply **far away**. Its usage illustrates key biblical themes, from the finality of divine judgment that casts people **beyond** their homeland [[Amos 5:27]] to the promise of a new, ongoing relationship with God that moves **forward** from a specific moment [[Ezekiel 39:22]]. Whether directing a journey or defining an era, `{{H1973}}` marks a departure from one state and a progression to another.
TRV