from an unused root perhaps meaning to move softly; (as a noun) a necromancer (from their soft incantations), (as an adverb) gently; charmer, gently, secret, softly.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼaṭ**, represented by `{{H328}}`, has a dual meaning rooted in the idea of soft, quiet movement or sound. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible. It is used as an adverb to mean **gently** or **softly**, but also as a noun for a **charmer** or **necromancer**, likely referring to their soft incantations. This unique word can describe both a tender action and a forbidden spiritual practice.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H328}}` is used to illustrate a range of actions and concepts. It describes the careful pace of Jacob as he leads his family and livestock, promising to "lead on **softly**" to not overwork them [[Genesis 33:14]]. It also conveys the posture of King Ahab's repentance, who "went **softly**" after being confronted by Elijah [[1 Kings 21:27]]. King David uses it to command his soldiers to "Deal **gently** for my sake with the young man" Absalom [[2 Samuel 18:5]]. In a contrasting context, Isaiah warns that when the spirit of Egypt fails, the people will turn to "the **charmers**" [[Isaiah 19:3]]. The word is even used to ask Job if there is a **secret** thing with him [[Job 15:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{H328}}` appears:
* `{{H5095}}` **nâhal** (to lead gently, on): This word appears alongside `{{H328}}` in [[Genesis 33:14]], where Jacob's promise to "lead on" softly emphasizes his gentle and protective care for his family.
* `{{H1980}}` **hâlak** (to walk): This verb is used to describe both the gentle flow of the waters of Shiloah [[Isaiah 8:6]] and the repentant walk of King Ahab, who "went softly" [[1 Kings 21:27]].
* `{{H178}}` **ʼôwb** (familiar spirit): In Isaiah's prophecy against Egypt, charmers `{{H328}}` are listed alongside those with "familiar spirits," connecting the term to forbidden occult practices [[Isaiah 19:3]].
* `{{H1875}}` **dârash** (to seek or ask): This word highlights a critical choice. While it can mean to seek God, in [[Isaiah 19:3]], the Egyptians "shall seek" `{{H1875}}` charmers `{{H328}}` and idols when their own counsel is destroyed.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H328}}` is found in its contrasting applications, representing both righteous and unrighteous dispositions.
* **Humility and Repentance:** The adverbial use of "softly" can signify a humble posture before God. King Ahab's act of walking softly demonstrates an outward expression of his inner grief and repentance [[1 Kings 21:27]].
* **Gentle Care:** The word reflects a godly characteristic of compassionate care. David's plea for his son Absalom to be treated "gently" [[2 Samuel 18:5]] and Jacob's careful leading of his flock [[Genesis 33:14]] are examples of this tender aspect.
* **Forbidden Spiritualism:** As "charmers," `{{H328}}` represents a form of spiritual seeking that is condemned. When the Egyptians face judgment, they turn to these figures who operate through soft, secret incantations instead of turning to the Lord [[Isaiah 19:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H328}}` is a multifaceted word that derives its meaning from the concept of softness. It can describe the praiseworthy gentleness of a caring leader or the quiet steps of a repentant king. Simultaneously, it carries the sinister undertone of a necromancer whose power is in soft whispers and secret rites. The word powerfully illustrates how the same quality of "softness" can characterize either profound humility or dangerous deception.
TRV