The Hebrew word lᵉmôw, represented by H3926, is a prolonged and separable form of a prepositional prefix. It functions to mean to or for; at, for, to, upon. It is a rare term, appearing only 4 times across 4 unique verses, with all occurrences found in the book of Job.
Within the biblical text, H3926 is used to establish a relationship of purpose, direction, or position. It can point toward a consequence, as when the children of the wicked are said to be multiplied "for the sword" Job 27:14. It also denotes the focus of attention, such as when men gave ear and "kept silence at my counsel" Job 29:21. The word is used to describe a physical posture of submission in Job's declaration, "I will lay mine hand upon my mouth" Job 40:4. Finally, it can indicate purpose in the natural world, as when lions abide in their covert "to lie in wait" Job 38:40.
Several related words from the context of Job illuminate the meaning of H3926:
- H6098 ʻêtsâh (advice; by implication, plan; also prudence): This word for counsel is the object of attention in Job 29:21. The counsel of the LORD is presented as what will ultimately stand, in contrast to the many devices in a man's heart Proverbs 19:21.
- H2719 chereb (sword): This word for a cutting instrument represents the judgment that is the destination for the wicked's children in Job 27:14. It is also used prophetically as an instrument of the LORD Zechariah 13:7.
- H3027 yâd (hand): This term for hand, indicating power and means, is used with H3926 to describe Job's act of silencing himself Job 40:4. The hand of God is a symbol of His protective power for those who seek Him Ezra 8:22.
The theological significance of H3926 is tied directly to its exclusive use in the book of Job.
- Direction Toward Judgment: The preposition points to an inescapable outcome for unrighteousness. When offspring are multiplied "for the sword," it establishes a direct line from action to divine consequence Job 27:14.
- A Posture of Humility: In response to God's authority, Job places his hand "upon his mouth" Job 40:4. This use of H3926 defines the physical act of silencing oneself as the proper response to divine revelation and personal smallness.
- The Focus of Wisdom: The term is used to show where attention should be directed. Job's listeners waited "at my counsel," highlighting wisdom as a focal point deserving of silent contemplation Job 29:21.
In summary, H3926 is a specific prepositional form that, while rare, carries significant weight in its context. Its appearances solely within the book of Job use it to define relationships of purpose, consequence, and focus. Whether pointing to judgment (for the sword), submission (upon my mouth), or the object of attention (at my counsel), lᵉmôw demonstrates how prepositions can frame the theological arguments of a passage, connecting actions to their ultimate ends.
TRV