The Hebrew word hênnâh, represented by H2007, is a versatile demonstrative pronoun and adverb. It appears 26 times across 24 unique verses in the Bible. Its meaning is highly contextual, often translated as these, they, them, their, or such, serving to emphasize or specify the subject being discussed.
In the biblical narrative, H2007 is used in several key contexts. It identifies specific groups, as in Genesis 6:2 where the sons of God saw the daughters of men and noted that they were fair. It is also used to single out responsible parties, such as in Numbers 31:16, which states, "Behold, these caused the children of Israel...to commit trespass." The word can refer to inanimate objects or concepts, as when God tells David he will give him "such and such things" 2 Samuel 12:8, or when referring to the commandments of the LORD, forbidding sin against any of them Leviticus 4:2. In other instances, it points to specific nations, such as those who were the ancient inhabitants of the land near Egypt 1 Samuel 27:8.
Several related words help establish the context for what H2007 is identifying:
- H259 ʼechâd (one): This numeral is frequently used with H2007 to single out an individual from a group. This is seen in laws where an action is forbidden against "any one of them" Leviticus 4:2 and in the promise of protection where "not one of them is broken" Psalms 34:20.
- H802 ʼishshâh (woman): This word provides a specific subject for H2007. In Genesis 6:2, the sons of God took wives, and in a vision in Zechariah, two women are described as having wings like a stork, where H2007 confirms that they had wings Zechariah 5:9.
- H1121 bên (son): As a term for children or descendants, this word often defines the group to which H2007 refers. It identifies the "sons of God" in Genesis 6:2 and the "children of Israel" who were led to commit trespass Numbers 31:16.
The function of H2007 is crucial for understanding the focus of a given passage.
- Identifying Key Narrative Subjects: H2007 serves a critical function in identifying the subjects of significant biblical events. It clarifies who is being described, whether it is the "daughters of men" who were fair Genesis 6:2 or the nations that were the ancient "inhabitants of the land" 1 Samuel 27:8.
- Highlighting Moral and Spiritual States: The word often points to groups whose actions have spiritual consequences. It is used to identify these who led Israel into trespass in the matter of Peor Numbers 31:16 and to describe how Samaria's abominations were multiplied more than they Ezekiel 16:51.
- Emphasizing Divine Sovereignty: In prophetic and legal contexts, H2007 underscores God's complete knowledge and control. When God promises that not one of his creatures will lack its mate, the word these refers to the subjects of His command Isaiah 34:16. It is also used by God to describe the "many such things" that are with Him, indicating His sovereign plans Job 23:14.
In summary, H2007 is a functional and emphatic word that provides clarity and focus within the biblical text. While its direct translation varies, its purpose is consistent: to point to, emphasize, or refer back to specific persons, things, or groups. From identifying the subjects of creation's beauty Genesis 6:2 to those under judgment Jeremiah 5:6, hênnâh is an essential grammatical tool that directs the reader's attention to the key actors and elements in God's unfolding narrative.
TRV