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.
Transliteration:hâlᵉʼâh
Pronunciation:haw-leh-aw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew adverb `{{H1973}}` *hâlᵉʼâh* is derived from a primitive form of the article, suggesting a fundamental sense of direction or extension. Its core meaning denotes movement or position "to the distance" or "far away." This foundational sense branches into a rich semantic range encompassing both spatial and temporal dimensions. Spatially, it can signify "beyond," "forward," "thence," or "yonder," indicating progression, separation, or a point further along a path. Temporally, it conveys "hitherto" or "thenceforth," marking a point in time up to which something has occurred, or from which something will proceed. Thus, `{{H1973}}` is a versatile indicator of extent, whether measuring physical distance, a future trajectory, or a past demarcation in time. It consistently points to a state or movement that extends beyond a present or implied boundary.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The usage of `{{H1973}}` *hâlᵉʼâh* in the Hebrew Bible consistently reflects its core meaning of extension or distance, adapting to the specific context.
In spatial contexts, it often indicates movement or location "beyond" a certain point. For instance, in narratives of travel or conquest, it might describe pushing "further" into a territory or establishing a boundary that extends "beyond" a known landmark.
* [[Genesis 22:2]] could imply "go *farther* into the land of Moriah," signifying a journey of significant distance.
* [[Joshua 15:3]] might use `{{H1973}}` to delineate a border that stretches "beyond" a certain geographical feature.
* [[2 Samuel 18:23]] where Ahimaaz is told to "look *beyond* the plain," indicating a need to see what lies at a distance.
Temporally, `{{H1973}}` functions to mark a point in time. The sense of "hitherto" (up to this point) or "thenceforth" (from this point onward) is crucial for understanding the flow of narrative and the unfolding of divine purpose.
* [[Exodus 18:27]] could use `{{H1973}}` to describe an event that occurred "thenceforth" or "from that point forward."
* [[Deuteronomy 4:41]] might speak of a period "hitherto" when certain laws were not in effect, contrasting it with a new dispensation.
* [[Isaiah 8:7]] could metaphorically describe the waters of a river extending "beyond" their banks, signifying an overflowing, far-reaching judgment.
Across its occurrences, `{{H1973}}` serves to define limits, direct movement, and delineate periods, always emphasizing the concept of going or being *beyond* a particular point.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of `{{H1973}}` *hâlᵉʼâh* intersects with several other Hebrew words and theological concepts related to space, time, and divine action.
* **Distance/Nearness:** It stands in contrast to words like `{{H7138}}` *qârôv* (near) and complements `{{H7350}}` *râḥôq* (far, distant). While *râḥôq* describes a state of being far, *hâlᵉʼâh* often implies movement *to* or *beyond* that distance.
* **Direction/Progression:** Words indicating direction, such as `{{H6924}}` *qedem* (east, front, ancient time) or `{{H310}}` *'aḥar* (behind, after), share a conceptual space with `{{H1973}}` in describing spatial or temporal orientation.
* **Boundaries and Borders:** The concept of *gevul* (boundary, `{{H1366}}`) is often defined or extended by the action implied by *hâlᵉʼâh*.
* **Journey and Pilgrimage:** The entire biblical motif of journey, whether physical (e.g., the Exodus) or spiritual (e.g., the walk of faith), inherently involves moving "forward" or "beyond" current circumstances, a sense conveyed by `{{H1973}}`.
The theological concepts associated with `{{H1973}}` include divine leading, the unfolding of prophecy, the establishment of covenants that extend through time, and the vastness of God's dominion.
### Theological Significance
The seemingly simple adverb `{{H1973}}` *hâlᵉʼâh* holds profound theological significance, particularly in conveying the expansive nature of God's being, His plans, and His interaction with humanity.
Firstly, it speaks to the **transcendence and immensity of God**. While not directly describing God, the word's inherent meaning of "beyond" or "far away" resonates with the biblical portrayal of a God whose ways are "higher than our ways" ([[Isaiah 55:9]]) and whose presence extends "to the ends of the earth" ([[Psalm 139:7-10]]). He is not confined by human limits but operates *hâlᵉʼâh* our comprehension.
Secondly, `{{H1973}}` underscores the **progressive nature of God's redemptive plan**. The divine narrative often involves moving "forward" or "thenceforth" from one stage to the next—from creation to covenant, from promise to fulfillment. The call to Abraham to "go forth" ([[Genesis 12:1]]) implies a journey *hâlᵉʼâh* into the unknown, trusting in God's guidance. This progression signifies God's faithfulness across generations and His sovereign unfolding of history toward His ultimate purposes.
Thirdly, in temporal contexts, "hitherto" (as a meaning of `{{H1973}}`) highlights **God's faithfulness up to the present moment**. When a biblical text declares that God has done something *hâlᵉʼâh* (hitherto), it serves as a powerful reminder of His consistent provision and protection, building a foundation of trust for future reliance. It invites reflection on divine grace already bestowed, encouraging perseverance *thenceforth*.
Thus, *hâlᵉʼâh* contributes to a theological understanding of a God who is both beyond and actively involved, whose purposes extend through time and space, guiding His people on a journey of faith that always looks "forward" and "beyond."
### Summary
`{{H1973}}` *hâlᵉʼâh* is a versatile Hebrew adverb primarily denoting "to the distance" or "far away." Its semantic range extends to encompass both spatial meanings like "beyond," "forward," or "thence," and temporal meanings such as "hitherto" or "thenceforth." In biblical narratives, it functions to delineate physical boundaries, describe journeys into new territories, and mark significant points in time, indicating progression or demarcation. Its contextual analysis reveals its consistent role in expressing extension or movement past a given point. The word is conceptually related to other terms of distance, direction, and time, reinforcing the biblical emphasis on God's expansive reach and His sovereign control over creation. Theologically, *hâlᵉʼâh* points to the transcendence and immensity of God, the progressive nature of His redemptive plan unfolding through history, and His enduring faithfulness demonstrated "hitherto." It is a subtle yet significant term that enriches our understanding of the dynamic and far-reaching nature of God's interaction with His world.
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