### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **hinnêh**, represented by `{{H2009}}`, functions as an interjection to draw attention, defined as **lo!; behold, lo, see**. It appears **17 times** across **16 unique verses** in the Bible. It serves to direct immediate focus to a person, object, or event, emphasizing its significance or sudden appearance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2009}}` is used in several key contexts. It is spoken by divine beings to introduce a major declaration, as when the angel of the LORD tells Hagar, **Behold**, thou art with child [[Genesis 16:11]]. It is also used by God to announce both creative provision [[Genesis 1:29]] and imminent judgment, as in the warning of the flood: And, **behold**, I, even I, do bring a flood of waters upon the earth [[Genesis 6:17]]. Humans use it to express sudden discovery or surprise, such as when Joseph's brothers find their money restored and exclaim, **lo**, it is even in my sack [[Genesis 42:28]]. It also serves as a simple statement of presence, as when Samuel responds to Eli, **Here am I** [[1 Samuel 3:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The function of `{{H2009}}` as an attention-marker is clarified by words often used in conjunction with it:
* `{{H559}}` **ʼâmar** (to say): This word frequently precedes **hinnêh**, setting the stage for a significant announcement. An angel **said**, **Behold**, thou art with child [[Genesis 16:11]], framing the interjection as part of a direct communication.
* `{{H935}}` **bôwʼ** (to go or come): This term for arrival or entry is often what **hinnêh** points toward. The word is used to describe the flood God will **bring** upon the earth, an event prefaced by **behold** [[Genesis 6:17]].
* `{{H1319}}` **bâsar** (to announce (glad news)): This word highlights the proclamation of good news. In Isaiah, **hinnêh** is used to draw attention to the arrival of one that **bringeth good tidings** to Jerusalem [[Isaiah 41:27]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2009}}` is demonstrated in its use as a marker for divine action and human response.
* **Divine Proclamation:** God and His messengers use **hinnêh** to introduce pivotal moments of promise, creation, or judgment. This is seen when the angel of the LORD announces the coming of Ishmael [[Genesis 16:11]] and when God declares His provision for all life on earth [[Genesis 1:29]].
* **Prophetic Revelation:** The word is used by prophets to focus the listener's attention on a present reality. Jeremiah uses it to describe the people's wickedness (**behold**, ye walk every one after the imagination of his evil heart) [[Jeremiah 16:12]] and to reveal the potter's work as a metaphor for God's sovereignty (**behold**, he wrought a work on the wheels) [[Jeremiah 18:3]].
* **Human Acknowledgment and Submission:** **hinnêh** serves as a declaration of presence and submission before a higher authority. The Gibeonites surrender to Joshua, saying, **behold, we** are in thine hand [[Joshua 9:25]], and Jonathan accepts his fate by declaring, **lo**, I must die [[1 Samuel 14:43]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2009}}` is more than a simple interjection; it is a rhetorical device that signals importance and demands attention from the listener. Whether used by God to announce a world-altering event [[Genesis 6:17]], by a prophet to expose a difficult truth [[Ezekiel 13:10]], or by an individual to acknowledge their place [[Joshua 9:25]], **hinnêh** functions to bridge the gap between speaking and seeing. It underscores the immediate relevance of the message, urging the audience to "behold" and understand the gravity of what is being revealed.
TRV