from עָתַק; properly, antique, i.e. venerable or splendid; durable.
Transliteration:ʻâthîyq
Pronunciation:aw-theek'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word H6266 (ʻâthîyq), derived from the verb H6275 (ʻâthaq), carries a rich semantic range encompassing more than mere age. While its root suggests "to be old" or "to advance," ʻâthîyq itself denotes something "antique," "venerable," "splendid," or "durable." It speaks not just of chronological duration, but of the inherent value, dignity, and permanence associated with that antiquity. It implies a quality that endures through time, often acquiring honor, wisdom, or glory in the process. This term can describe something ancient in its origins, or something that has proven its resilience and worth over a long period.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term H6266 appears in the Hebrew Bible in a few significant contexts:
* **[[Job 12:12]]**: "Is not wisdom found among the aged? Does not long life bring understanding?" Here, ʻâthîyq (in its plural form, ʻattîqîm) refers to "the aged" or "the ancient ones." The verse posits a direct correlation between advanced years and the acquisition of wisdom and understanding. This highlights the respect accorded to elders and the value placed on lived experience in ancient Israelite thought.
* **[[Job 32:7]]**: Elihu declares, "I said, 'Days should speak, and multitude of years should teach wisdom.'" In this instance, ʻâthîyq modifies "days" (yāmîm), referring to "ancient days" or "days of old." The context again emphasizes that wisdom is a product of time and experience, suggesting that longevity itself is a teacher. This aligns with the broader biblical principle of revering and learning from those with extensive life experience.
* **[[Isaiah 23:7]]**: Describing the city of Tyre, the prophet asks, "Is this your joyous city, whose antiquity is of ancient days, whose feet carried her far off to sojourn?" Here, ʻâthîyq (in its feminine form, ʻattîqāh) refers to the "antiquity" or "ancientness" of the city. It speaks to Tyre's long-standing history and established reputation, though in this context, it is presented as a past glory that is now subject to divine judgment. The term underscores the city's venerable past, which contrasts sharply with its impending downfall.
While H6266 itself is Hebrew, its conceptual force is powerfully amplified by its Aramaic cognate H6267 (ʻattîyq), most notably in the phrase "Ancient of Days" (ʻattîyq yômîn) in [[Daniel 7:9]], [[Daniel 7:13]], and [[Daniel 7:22]]. Though a distinct lemma, the shared root and semantic overlap mean that the profound theological implications of the "Ancient of Days" often inform a richer understanding of ʻâthîyq.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for H6266 is its root verb, H6275 (ʻâthaq), meaning "to be old," "to move," or "to advance." This root emphasizes the passage of time and the resulting state of being ancient.
Crucially, the Aramaic cognate H6267 (ʻattîyq), used to describe God as the "Ancient of Days" in Daniel, stands as a pivotal conceptual relative. This connection elevates the meaning of antiquity from mere chronological age to divine timelessness, authority, and eternal existence.
Other related concepts include:
* **Wisdom (חָכְמָה, H2451):** Often associated with age and experience, as seen in the Job passages.
* **Understanding (בִּינָה, H998):** Similarly linked to long life and the insights gained over time.
* **Endurance/Permanence:** The "durable" aspect of ʻâthîyq points to qualities that last, contrasting with the transient nature of human life and endeavors.
* **Glory/Majesty:** The "splendid" or "venerable" aspect suggests an inherent dignity and honor that accrues with age and established presence.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ʻâthîyq primarily unfolds in two dimensions:
1. **Wisdom and Honoring Age:** In the Book of Job, ʻâthîyq underscores the biblical value placed on age as a source of wisdom and understanding. This aligns with the broader scriptural emphasis on respecting elders and seeking their counsel (e.g., [[Leviticus 19:32]], [[Proverbs 16:31]]). It suggests that God, in His design, has ordained that experience gained over time can lead to deeper insight into His ways and the world.
2. **Divine Eternity and Sovereignty (via H6267):** While H6266 is not directly applied to God, its Aramaic counterpart H6267 in the majestic title "Ancient of Days" in Daniel 7 is profoundly significant. This title portrays God not merely as old, but as eternally pre-existent, transcending all time and creation. He is the ultimate source of all authority, judgment, and lasting dominion. The "venerable" aspect of ʻâthîyq is thus fully realized in God's unchangeable character, His enduring covenants, and His absolute sovereignty over all history. The concept of God as "ancient" speaks to His immutability and the timeless nature of His truth and justice, providing a stark contrast to the fleeting nature of human kingdoms and achievements, as seen in the vision of Daniel.
### Summary
The Hebrew word H6266 (ʻâthîyq) conveys the rich meaning of antiquity, not merely as chronological age, but imbued with positive connotations of venerability, durability, and splendor. In the Book of Job, it highlights the wisdom and understanding that accrue with age and experience, emphasizing the value of elders in society. In Isaiah, it describes the long-standing history and former glory of a city. Crucially, through its close semantic and etymological ties to the Aramaic H6267 (ʻattîyq) – the "Ancient of Days" in Daniel – ʻâthîyq resonates with profound theological implications of divine eternity, unchanging majesty, and ultimate sovereignty. Thus, ʻâthîyq points to the enduring quality of time, whether in the acquisition of human wisdom or, preeminently, in the eternal and authoritative nature of God Himself.
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