### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **hălôm**, represented by `{{H1988}}`, is a term of location meaning **hither; here, hither(-(to)), thither**. It is a specific directional word used to indicate arrival at or presence in a particular place. It appears **11 times** across **11 unique verses** in the Bible, often marking a point of significance in the narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1988}}` is used to define a specific, often crucial, location. It can denote a place of divine encounter, as when God warns Moses, "Draw not nigh **hither**" at the burning bush, identifying the space as holy ground [[Exodus 3:5]]. It is also used as an invitation, such as when Boaz tells Ruth to "come thou **hither**" to share a meal [[Ruth 2:14]]. In moments of reflection, the term "hitherto" marks a point of arrival in God's plan, as when King David asks, "Who am I... that thou hast brought me **hitherto**?" ([[2 Samuel 7:18]], [[1 Chronicles 17:16]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related verbs of motion are frequently used with `{{H1988}}` to describe the action of arriving at the specified place:
* `{{H935}}` **bôwʼ** (to go or come): This general term for arrival is used when individuals are brought to a location. The Danites ask the Levite, "Who brought thee **hither**?" [[Judges 18:3]], and it is used to describe David as he **came** before the Lord [[1 Chronicles 17:16]].
* `{{H7126}}` **qârab** (to approach): This root specifically means to draw near and is often used in a religious context. The priest with Saul's army says, "Let us draw near **hither** unto God" [[1 Samuel 14:36]].
* `{{H5066}}` **nâgash** (to be or come near): Similar to `qârab`, this verb also signifies approaching. It is used when Saul commands the leaders of the people, "Draw ye near **hither**" [[1 Samuel 14:38]].
* `{{H5493}}` **çûwr** (to turn off): This word describes the act of turning aside to go to a place. It is used when the men with the Levite "turned in **thither**" to the house of Micah [[Judges 18:3]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H1988}}` is found in the contexts where it appears, often marking a place or moment of critical spiritual importance.
* **Designating Sacred Space:** The word is used to set apart a location as a place of divine revelation. God's command to Moses not to come **hither** establishes the ground as holy and defines the terms of the encounter [[Exodus 3:5]].
* **A Call for Divine Counsel:** **Hither** is the location where God's people are gathered to seek His will. The priest summons the people to "draw near **hither** unto God" for guidance [[1 Samuel 14:36]], and the children of Israel are told to "give **here** your advice and counsel" [[Judges 20:7]].
* **Marking Covenant Faithfulness:** David's use of "hitherto" is a powerful acknowledgment of God's sovereign hand in bringing him to a place of prominence, framing his personal history within God's larger covenant plan ([[2 Samuel 7:18]], [[1 Chronicles 17:16]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1988}}` is more than a simple adverb of place. While its literal meaning is "here" or "hither," its biblical usage consistently points to a location of consequence. Whether marking the holy ground of God's presence, the gathering point for seeking His counsel, or a milestone in His covenant promises, **hălôm** transforms a physical spot into a place of significant spiritual action and reflection.
TRV