### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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."
TRV