probably from אָחַר; properly, deferred, i.e. the morrow; usually (adverbially) tomorrow; indefinitely, hereafter; time to come, tomorrow.
Transliteration:mâchâr
Pronunciation:maw-khar'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word מָחָר (mâchâr, `{{H4279}}`) is a temporal noun and adverb derived, in all probability, from the root אָחַר (akar, `{{H0309}}`), meaning "to be behind," "to delay," or "to defer." This etymological connection imbues מָחָר with the inherent sense of "that which comes after" or "that which is deferred." Its primary and most frequent meaning is "tomorrow" or "the morrow," referring to the day immediately following the present one. As an adverb, it functions similarly, denoting an event that will occur "tomorrow." Beyond this immediate temporal reference, מָחָר can also extend its semantic range to signify an indefinite "hereafter," "in time to come," or "some future day," particularly in contexts where a specific next day is not implied but rather a future, unspecified point in time. It is fundamentally a word that projects thought forward from the present moment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word מָחָר appears frequently throughout the Hebrew Bible, often marking the immediate future in divine commands, prophetic declarations, or narrative sequences. In the Pentateuch, it is notably used in the context of God's direct interaction with Israel, emphasizing His control over events. For instance, God declares the timing of the plagues as "tomorrow" (מָחָר) in passages like [[Exodus 8:10]] and [[Exodus 9:5]], demonstrating His precise execution of judgment. In the provision of manna, מָחָר specifies the day for gathering (except on the Sabbath), highlighting the divine rhythm of work and rest ([[Exodus 16:23]]). Joshua uses it to call the people to sanctify themselves "tomorrow" before crossing the Jordan, underlining the imminent divine action ([[Joshua 3:5]]).
Beyond the literal "next day," מָחָר also functions to denote an indefinite future. This is particularly evident in pedagogical contexts where a future generation's inquiry is anticipated. For example, in the instructions concerning the Passover and the dedication of the firstborn, Moses states, "When your son asks you in time to come (מָחָר), 'What is this?'" ([[Exodus 13:14]]). Similarly, in the Deuteronomic call to remember the Law, it is envisioned that "When your son asks you in time to come (מָחָר), 'What is the meaning of the testimonies and the statutes and the rules...?'" ([[Deuteronomy 6:20]]). These uses of מָחָר do not refer to the literal next day but to an unspecified point in the future when intergenerational teaching will occur, underscoring the enduring relevance of God's covenant and mighty acts.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary lexical relationship for מָחָר (mâchâr, `{{H4279}}`) is its probable root, אָחַר (akar, `{{H0309}}`), which conveys the idea of "delaying," "deferring," or "being behind." This connection reinforces the notion of מָחָר as "that which comes after" the present.
Other related temporal concepts include:
* יוֹם (yom, `{{H3117}}`): "Day." מָחָר specifies the *next* day, contrasting with הַיּוֹם (hayyom), "today." The tension between "today" and "tomorrow" often highlights immediacy versus anticipation in biblical narratives.
* עַתָּה (attah, `{{H6258}}`): "Now," "at this time." This adverb marks the present moment, standing in direct contrast to the future orientation of מָחָר.
* לְעוֹלָם (le'olam, `{{H5769}}`): "Forever," "always." This term denotes eternity or an indefinite, continuous period, offering a broader temporal scope than the specific or indefinite future of מָחָר.
* Concepts of future, delay, anticipation, and divine timing are intrinsically linked to the usage of מָחָר. It serves as a linguistic marker for the unfolding of God's plan in time, whether in the immediate next day or in a more distant, yet certain, future.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of מָחָר (mâchâr, `{{H4279}}`) is multifaceted, deeply intertwined with the biblical understanding of God's sovereignty, human responsibility, and the nature of time itself.
1. **Divine Sovereignty Over Time:** The frequent use of מָחָר in God's pronouncements (e.g., concerning plagues, manna, or the crossing of the Jordan) emphatically declares His absolute control over the temporal dimension. God is not bound by time but orchestrates it, determining precisely what will occur "tomorrow." This demonstrates His omnipotence, omniscience, and faithfulness in bringing His plans to fruition.
2. **Human Responsibility and Trust:** For Israel, מָחָר often presented a challenge to faith and obedience. The command to gather manna for "tomorrow" (but not on the Sabbath) tested their trust in God's daily provision and their obedience to His Sabbath command ([[Exodus 16]]). Similarly, the call to sanctify themselves for "tomorrow's" crossing of the Jordan required present obedience in anticipation of God's future mighty act ([[Joshua 3:5]]). Thus, מָחָר highlights the necessity of living in present obedience and trust, knowing that God is faithful to His future promises.
3. **Pedagogical Imperative:** The use of מָחָר in passages like [[Exodus 13:14]] and [[Deuteronomy 6:20]] is profoundly significant for intergenerational theology. The anticipated question from "your son in time to come (מָחָר)" serves as a divine mandate for parents to teach their children about God's salvific acts and commandments. This ensures the continuity of faith and the preservation of divine truth across generations, emphasizing the importance of remembering God's past deeds as foundational for future understanding and identity.
4. **Hope and Expectation:** While often denoting mundane temporal progression, מָחָר implicitly carries a sense of expectation. For the faithful, it is a reminder that God's plan is always progressing towards its ultimate fulfillment, whether in judgment or blessing. It instills a forward-looking hope, grounded in the certainty of God's unfolding purposes.
### Summary
The Hebrew word מָחָר (mâchâr, `{{H4279}}`), likely derived from אָחַר (akar, `{{H0309}}` "to delay, defer"), primarily signifies "tomorrow" or "the morrow." Its semantic range extends to an indefinite "hereafter" or "in time to come," particularly in contexts anticipating future generational inquiries. Its pervasive use in the biblical narrative, especially in divine commands and promises, powerfully underscores God's sovereign control over the unfolding of time. מָחָר serves as a constant reminder of God's omnipotence and faithfulness in orchestrating events, while simultaneously challenging humanity to live in present obedience and trust in His future provisions. Furthermore, it highlights the crucial theological imperative for intergenerational teaching, ensuring that the memory of God's redemptive acts is faithfully transmitted to future generations. Ultimately, מָחָר points forward, anchoring human experience in the certainty of God's ongoing and purposeful work in history.
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