The Hebrew word ʼănûw, represented by H580, is a contracted form of the pronoun for we. It is a rare term, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible. Its singular use highlights a specific moment of collective identity and commitment.
The single appearance of H580 is in a moment of solemn declaration by the remnant of Judah to the prophet Jeremiah. They collectively state, "to whom we H580 send thee," establishing their unified identity as the ones seeking God's will. This declaration is a promise to obey the voice H6963 of the LORD H3068 their God H430, whether His answer is perceived as good H2896 or as evil H7451 Jeremiah 42:6.
The context of H580 is enriched by several key terms that define the people's commitment:
- H8085 shâmaʻ (to hear intelligently... obey): This word is central to the promise, used twice in the verse. The people pledge to obey the Lord's instructions, with the understanding that to obey is better than sacrifice 1 Samuel 15:22.
- H6963 qôwl (a voice or sound): This is what the people commit to hearing. The concept of heeding the voice of the Lord is a recurring theme tied to blessing and covenant relationship Exodus 19:5.
- H7971 shâlach (to send away, for, or out): This describes the action of the collective "we." They send Jeremiah to inquire of God, just as God later promises to send His word to accomplish His purposes Isaiah 55:11.
- H3068 Yᵉhôvâh ((the) self-Existent or Eternal; Jehovah, Jewish national name of God): This is the ultimate authority to whom the people submit. Their promise is directed to the LORD, the covenant God of Israel Jeremiah 42:6.
The singular use of H580 carries significant theological weight in its context:
- Corporate Commitment: The word we establishes the concept of collective accountability before God. The people of Judah bind themselves together in a shared promise, demonstrating that faith and obedience are communal responsibilities.
- Unconditional Submission: The vow to obey whether God's word is good H2896 or evil H7451 represents an ideal form of submission. It places God's authority above human comfort or expectation, linking obedience directly to well-being, as seen when God promises "that it may be well H3190 unto you" Jeremiah 7:23.
- The Act of Seeking: The act of sending H7971 Jeremiah on their behalf underscores the principle of seeking God's will. This action is presented as a prerequisite for receiving divine guidance and blessing Ezra 8:22.
In summary, ʼănûw H580, though used only once, provides a powerful snapshot of corporate commitment. Its singular context in Jeremiah 42:6 encapsulates a pivotal moment where a community collectively pledges total obedience to the voice H6963 of the LORD H3068. It serves as a stark illustration of the human vow of submission and the divine standard for a relationship with God, where the welfare of the people is tied directly to their willingness to obey H8085.
TRV