### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻêd**, represented by `{{H5707}}`, is a foundational term for a **witness** or **testimony**. It appears **69 times** across **59 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from the root `{{H5749}}`, its meaning can be concrete, as in a person who witnesses an event, or abstract, referring to testimony itself. It can also specifically denote a recorder or prince.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical law and narrative, `{{H5707}}` is used in several critical contexts. It establishes the basis for justice, as seen in the command, "Thou shalt not bear false **witness** against thy neighbour" [[Exodus 20:16]]. Legal matters required verification by multiple individuals, with the law stating that "at the mouth of two **witnesses**, or at the mouth of three **witnesses**, shall the matter be established" [[Deuteronomy 19:15]]. God Himself is presented as a **witness** to covenants and human actions ([[Genesis 31:50]], [[Jeremiah 29:23]]). Furthermore, inanimate objects like a heap of stones [[Genesis 31:48]], an altar [[Joshua 22:27]], and even a song [[Deuteronomy 31:19]] are designated as a **witness** to preserve memory and accountability between parties.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concepts of testimony and truthfulness:
* `{{H5749}}` **ʻûwd** (to testify): This primitive root is the verb form from which ʻêd is contracted. It means to protest or testify, often by reiteration, and is used in contexts of taking someone to witness or giving a warning.
* `{{H5713}}` **ʻêdâh** (testimony): This feminine form of ʻêd is used technically for testimony, appearing alongside its masculine counterpart to emphasize the binding nature of a witnessed agreement [[Genesis 31:52]].
* `{{H8267}}` **sheqer** (an untruth; falsehood): This word is frequently paired with `{{H5707}}` to describe a "false **witness**" ([[Proverbs 6:19]], [[Proverbs 25:18]]), highlighting the grave sin of bearing false testimony.
* `{{H571}}` **ʼemeth** (truth, trustworthiness): As the direct contrast to falsehood, this term describes the character of a reliable witness. The LORD is called upon to be a "true (**ʼemeth**) and faithful **witness**" [[Jeremiah 42:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H5707}}` is profound, grounding concepts of justice, divine knowledge, and Israel's purpose.
* **Foundation of Justice:** The requirement for witnesses in legal proceedings is a cornerstone of biblical law, designed to protect against false accusation and ensure that judgment is based on verified truth ([[Deuteronomy 19:15]], [[Numbers 35:30]]).
* **Divine Witness and Judgment:** God is portrayed as the ultimate **witness** who sees all actions, especially sin committed in secret. He declares He will be a "swift **witness** against the sorcerers, and against the adulterers" [[Malachi 3:5]], affirming His omniscience and role as judge.
* **Israel's Covenantal Vocation:** God designates His people, Israel, as His **witnesses** to the world. This role is not passive but is a central part of their identity and purpose, meant to declare His sole existence as God ([[Isaiah 43:10]], [[Isaiah 44:8]]).
* **Enduring Testimony:** Inanimate objects serving as a **witness**, such as the heap of stones named Galeed ("heap of testimony") [[Genesis 31:48]] or the altar by the Jordan [[Joshua 22:34]], establish the principle of creating lasting memorials to preserve the truth of covenants and historical events for future generations [[Joshua 22:27]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5707}}` **ʻêd** is far more than a simple legal term. It is a vital concept in scripture that underpins law, covenant, and divine-human relationships. From the legal requirement for multiple witnesses to the calling of Israel to be God's **witness** to the nations, the word illustrates a deep biblical concern for truth, accountability, and the faithful testimony of God's character and actions in the world.
TRV