The Hebrew particle hên, represented by H2005, is a primitive word that serves to draw attention or express surprise and conditionality. Translated as behold, if, lo, or though, it appears 7 times in 7 unique verses. Its function is to set the stage for a significant declaration, a conditional statement, or a profound expression of conviction.
The use of H2005 varies by context, highlighting its flexibility. It is frequently used to introduce a solemn or weighty statement, often from God Himself, as in "Behold H2005, the man H120 is become as one H259 of us" Genesis 3:22. It can also serve as a direct call to attention, as when Isaiah declares, "Behold H2005, the LORD'S H3068 hand H3027 is not shortened H7114, that it cannot save H3467" Isaiah 59:1. In a conditional sense, it establishes the terms for divine action, such as, "If H2005 I shut up H6113 heaven H8064 that there be no rain H4306" 2 Chronicles 7:13. Finally, it can convey a resolute stance in the face of adversity, as demonstrated by Job: "Though H2005 he slay H6991 me, yet will I trust H3176 in him" Job 13:15.
Several related words are used in conjunction with H2005 to frame these important statements:
- H3068 Yᵉhôvâh (the Lord): This name for God is often the subject of a declaration introduced by hên. For example, in Genesis 3:22, the LORD God speaks, beginning with "Behold H2005."
- H3467 yâshaʻ (to free or succor): This word for salvation is central to the assurance given in Isaiah 59:1, where "Behold H2005" introduces the truth that the LORD's hand is powerful enough to save.
- H3176 yâchal (to wait, hope, trust): This term for trust is the response to the condition set by hên in Job's famous declaration of faith Job 13:15.
- H1698 deber (a pestilence): This word describes one of the potential divine judgments introduced by the conditional "If H2005" in God's address to Solomon 2 Chronicles 7:13.
The theological significance of H2005 lies in its function as a marker for divine truth and human response.
- Divine Declaration: The particle is often used to preface a momentous announcement from God, underscoring His sovereignty and direct communication with humanity (Genesis 3:22, Isaiah 59:1). It commands the listener to pay attention to the reality being revealed.
- Conditional Reality: In passages like 2 Chronicles 7:13, hên establishes a framework of cause and effect, where divine actions like sending pestilence H1698 are presented as consequences. This highlights the relational nature of God's covenant.
- Profound Faith: The use of hên as "though" introduces statements of unwavering faith in the most extreme circumstances. Job's willingness to trust H3176 God even if slain is a powerful testament to a faith that transcends circumstance Job 13:15.
- Observational Truth: The word is also used to point out a simple, observable fact to make a point, such as when Jacob says, "Lo H2005, it is yet high H1419 day H3117" Genesis 29:7, urging the shepherds to continue their work.
In summary, H2005 is a versatile particle that serves as a vital signal in scripture. While a small word, its placement at the beginning of a phrase invests the following words with a sense of importance, whether it is a declaration of God's power to save H3467, a conditional warning of judgment, or a profound statement of human trust in the divine. It effectively tells the reader or listener: "Pay attention, for what follows is of great consequence."
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