The Hebrew word ʻattâh, represented by H6258, is a temporal marker signifying at this time. It appears 9 times in 9 unique verses, serving as a critical adverb, conjunction, or expletive. Beyond its primary meaning of "now," it encompasses concepts such as henceforth, straightway, this time, and whereas.
In the biblical narrative, H6258 is used to pinpoint a pivotal moment or a change in status. It marks the climax of Abraham's test when the angel declares, "for now I know that thou fearest God" Genesis 22:12. It can also signify the start of a new reality, as when Isaac digs a well without strife and says, "For now the LORD hath made room for us" Genesis 26:22. The word can also introduce a consequence, as in the warning, "from henceforth thou shalt have wars" 2 Chronicles 16:9, or a comparison, as when Rehoboam says, "whereas my father put a heavy yoke upon you, I will put more to your yoke" 2 Chronicles 10:11.
Several related words provide a broader context for time, quality, and duration:
- H2896 ṭôwb (good): This word for good in the widest sense is used to contrast a previous state with the present. In Hosea 2:7, Israel laments that it was better with her first husband "than now."
- H5704 ʻad (until, for): This term, meaning as far as or until, is often used to extend a period of time. It is paired with H6258 in Psalms 113:2 to establish praise "from this time forth and for evermore."
- H5769 ʻôwlâm (eternity, evermore): Meaning time out of mind or eternity, this word gives a sense of perpetuity. It follows H6258 to describe the enduring nature of praise that begins "from this time forth" and lasts for evermore Psalms 113:2.
The theological weight of H6258 lies in its function as a marker for divine action and human response.
- A Moment of Revelation: The word frequently signals a point where God's knowledge or purpose is made clear, such as the declaration to Abraham after he shows he has not withheld his son Genesis 22:12.
- The Start of a New Dispensation: ʻattâh can introduce a new era of either blessing or judgment. It marks a time of God-given fruitfulness Genesis 26:22 and the beginning of new, hidden revelations from God Isaiah 48:6. Conversely, it can also initiate a period of decreed hardship 2 Chronicles 16:9.
- The Point of Human Realization: The term is used when characters reach a turning point in their understanding. Israel, after pursuing lovers in vain, resolves to return to God, realizing her former state was better than "now" Hosea 2:7.
In summary, H6258 is more than a simple indicator of the present. It is a device that lends gravity to specific moments, marking turning points in the relationship between God and humanity. Whether used as "now," "henceforth," or "whereas," ʻattâh frames pivotal events, highlighting moments of divine confirmation, consequence, blessing, and human realization throughout the scriptures.
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