### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼăzay**, represented by `{{H233}}`, is an adverb meaning **at that time** or **then**. A very specific term, it appears only **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. Its usage is confined to a single passage, where it serves a distinct rhetorical purpose.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
All three occurrences of `{{H233}}` are found in Psalm 124, where the word is used consecutively to introduce a series of hypothetical calamities. The psalmist uses "**then**" to describe what would have happened if not for divine intervention. First, the enemies' kindled **wrath** `{{H639}}` would have **swallowed us up** `{{H1104}}` **quick** `{{H2416}}` [[Psalms 124:3]]. This is followed by the imagery of being overcome by nature, stating that **then** the **waters** `{{H4325}}` would have **overwhelmed** `{{H7857}}` them and the **stream** `{{H5158}}` gone over their **soul** `{{H5315}}` [[Psalms 124:4]]. The passage culminates by repeating the idea, specifying that **then** the **proud** `{{H2121}}` **waters** `{{H4325}}` would have **gone over** `{{H5674}}` their **soul** `{{H5315}}` [[Psalms 124:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H233}}` is enriched by the powerful words associated with it:
* `{{H1104}}` **bâlaʻ** (to make away with... by swallowing): This verb depicts a complete and total destruction, the fate described in the first "then" statement [[Psalms 124:3]]. It is used elsewhere to describe enemies who have **swallowed me up** [[Jeremiah 51:34]].
* `{{H7857}}` **shâṭaph** (to gush; to inundate, overwhelm): This term describes the action of the floodwaters that would have inundated them [[Psalms 124:4]]. It is also used to convey God's promise of protection, that when passing through rivers, "they shall not **overflow** thee" [[Isaiah 43:2]].
* `{{H5315}}` **nephesh** (a breathing creature... soul): This word signifies the very life or being that was at risk of being extinguished by the overwhelming stream ([[Psalms 124:4]], [[Psalms 124:5]]). It is the same word used in the command to love God with all your **soul** [[Deuteronomy 6:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H233}}` is tied directly to its role in illustrating the magnitude of a threat and the corresponding greatness of deliverance.
* **Highlighting Imminent Peril:** The word serves as a gateway to scenarios of absolute doom. It emphasizes that if circumstances were different, the outcome would have been total destruction, as when the enemy's **wrath** `{{H639}}` was **kindled** `{{H2734}}` against them [[Psalms 124:3]].
* **Illustrating Overwhelming Forces:** By introducing the image of the **proud** `{{H2121}}` **waters** `{{H4325}}` and the **stream** `{{H5158}}` going over their **soul** `{{H5315}}`, the use of "then" underscores the powerlessness of individuals against hostile forces [[Psalms 124:4-5]].
* **Creating Rhetorical Contrast:** **ʼăzay** establishes a powerful hypothetical reality. By repeatedly stating what would have happened "**then**," the psalmist creates a dramatic contrast with the actual, unstated outcome of salvation, thereby magnifying the reason for praise.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H233}}` is a rare adverb whose importance lies not in its frequency but in its powerful rhetorical function within Psalm 124. As **ʼăzay**, meaning "**then**," it methodically builds a picture of inescapable catastrophe—being swallowed by enemies and overwhelmed by raging waters. This repeated emphasis on what would have been serves to profoundly amplify the sense of peril and, by extension, the significance of the deliverance that prevented it.
TRV