The Hebrew word keçeʼ, represented by H3677, refers to a (time) appointed. It is a rare term, appearing only 2 times in 2 unique verses. Its definition suggests a connection to the fulness of the moon or its corresponding festival, emphasizing a specific, designated point in time.
The two uses of H3677 highlight its application in both sacred and secular contexts. In Psalms, it marks a holy day, commanding a trumpet H7782 to be blown on the new moon H2320 and at the time appointed for a solemn feast Psalms 81:3. In Proverbs, the word is used to describe a pre-arranged schedule, where a man is expected to come H935 home H1004 at the day appointed Proverbs 7:20.
Several related words help clarify the meaning of a designated time:
- H2320 chôdesh (new moon): This term for the new moon or month is used in direct parallel with H3677 to establish the calendar for a religious festival Psalms 81:3.
- H2282 chag (feast): Defined as a festival, this word appears alongside H3677 to specify that the "time appointed" is for a solemn feast Psalms 81:3.
- H3117 yôwm (day): This general word for day is paired with H3677 in both of its occurrences, anchoring the "appointed time" to a specific, literal day (Psalms 81:3; Proverbs 7:20).
- H7782 shôwphâr (trumpet): The command to blow a trumpet is the action that announces the arrival of the "time appointed" in a ceremonial context Psalms 81:3.
The significance of H3677 is tied to the concept of appointed moments.
- Sacred Timekeeping: Its use in Psalms 81:3 underscores that certain times are set apart for religious observance. The "time appointed" is part of a divinely ordered schedule for worship, marked by specific rituals like blowing a trumpet during a feast.
- Scheduled Events: The appearance in Proverbs 7:20 demonstrates that the term also applies to human affairs, referring to a fixed or predetermined day for an event to occur, such as a person's return home.
In summary, while H3677 is not a frequently used word, it distinctly marks the idea of a pre-set or designated time. It is used to specify both the timing of a sacred feast and the day of an expected arrival in a personal matter. The word illustrates the importance of appointed moments in the rhythm of biblical life, whether for holy celebration or for keeping a commitment.
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