from אַחַר; the last or end, hence, the future; also posterity; (last, latter) end (time), hinder (utter) -most, length, posterity, remnant, residue, reward.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼachărîyth**, represented by `{{H319}}`, primarily signifies **the last or end**, **the future**, or **posterity**. It appears **61 times** across **60 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from `{{H310}}` ('achar), meaning "after" or "behind," `{{H319}}` carries a sense of finality, future outcome, and what remains at the conclusion of a period or event.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H319}}` is frequently used in a prophetic context, often translated as "the last days" or "latter days," to describe a future time of divine action ([[Genesis 49:1]], [[Micah 4:1]]). It also describes the ultimate outcome or consequence of a person's life and choices. A way that seems right to a man can have an **end** leading to death [[Proverbs 14:12]], while the **end** of an upright man is peace [[Psalms 37:37]]. The LORD blessed the **latter end** of Job more than his beginning [[Job 42:12]], and God promises to give His people an expected **end** filled with peace and hope [[Jeremiah 29:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of the future and final outcomes:
* `{{H7225}}` **rêʼshîyth** (beginning, chief(-est), first(-fruits, part, time), principal thing): This word is the direct counterpart to `{{H319}}` and is frequently used in contrast to it, as in the phrase "the end from the beginning" [[Isaiah 46:10]] or in comparing Job's beginning to his **latter end** [[Job 42:12]].
* `{{H8615}}` **tiqvâh** (expectation(-ted), hope, live, thing that I long for): Often used alongside `{{H319}}` to describe the nature of the future, signifying an "expected end" or a "hope in thine end" ([[Jeremiah 29:11]], [[Jeremiah 31:17]]).
* `{{H3117}}` **yôwm** (day): Frequently paired with `{{H319}}` to form the prophetic phrase "the last days" or "latter days," pointing to a specific future period of time ([[Genesis 49:1]], [[Isaiah 2:2]]).
* `{{H310}}` **ʼachar** (after, behind, posterity): The root word for `{{H319}}`, it signifies what comes "after" and is used to introduce events that will follow, such as when the children of Israel will return to the LORD [[Hosea 3:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H319}}` is significant in several key areas:
* **Prophetic Future:** `{{H319}}` is central to biblical eschatology, often appearing in the phrase "the last days" or "latter days." This period is described as a time when the LORD's house will be established above all mountains ([[Isaiah 2:2]], [[Micah 4:1]]), but also a time of judgment when transgressors come to the full [[Daniel 8:23]].
* **Divine Sovereignty and Foreknowledge:** The word underscores God's absolute control over time and history. He is the one who declares the **end** from the beginning [[Isaiah 46:10]], and his counsel will stand. This demonstrates that the future is not arbitrary but is known and directed by God.
* **The Consequence of a Life's Path:** `{{H319}}` is used to signify the ultimate outcome of human choices. A way that seems right can end in death [[Proverbs 14:12]], while the **end** of the upright man is peace [[Psalms 37:37]]. Forgetting God results in a disastrous **last end** [[Lamentations 1:9]], whereas hearing counsel leads to wisdom in one's **latter end** [[Proverbs 19:20]].
* **Hope and Restoration:** Despite its use in warnings, `{{H319}}` is profoundly linked to hope. The LORD promises a future and a hope, an "expected **end**" that is for peace and not evil [[Jeremiah 29:11]]. This hope extends to posterity, with the promise that Israel's children will return [[Jeremiah 31:17]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H319}}` is a term with deep theological weight, moving beyond a simple concept of an ending. It encompasses the final outcome, the prophetic future, and the destiny of individuals and nations. Whether describing the dire consequences of a foolish life [[Jeremiah 17:11]] or the blessed and hopeful future God has planned for his people [[Jeremiah 29:11]], **ʼachărîyth** consistently points to the ultimate reality that the end of all things is determined by God's sovereign will and righteous judgment.
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