### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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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