The Hebrew word ʻattîyq, represented by H6267, carries a dual meaning related to being removed or ancient. It appears only 2 times in 2 unique verses, yet its usage points to significant concepts. The term can describe something physically "drawn" away, as in the weaning of a child, or it can denote things that are "antique" and from a distant past.
In the scriptures, H6267 is used in two distinct ways. In Isaiah, it illustrates a state of maturity. The question is asked, "Whom shall he teach knowledge?" The answer is "them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts" Isaiah 28:9. Here, it signifies a transition from basic sustenance to a readiness for deeper instruction. The second use, in 1 Chronicles, refers to historical lineage and records, stating, "And these are ancient things" 1 Chronicles 4:22, emphasizing their age and established origin.
Several related words clarify the meaning of H6267, particularly in its context of being "drawn" or weaned:
- H1580 gâmal: This root verb means to ripen, i.e. (specifically) to wean. It appears directly alongside H6267 in Isaiah 28:9 to describe those who are "weaned" from milk, reinforcing the idea of maturation and transition.
- H2461 châlâb: Meaning milk, this word represents the elementary nourishment that one is "drawn" from. Its presence highlights the move from dependence, as seen in the phrase "weaned from the milk" Isaiah 28:9.
- H3384 yârâh: Defined as to point out (as if by aiming the finger), to teach, this word reveals the purpose of being "drawn" from the milk. It is those who have reached this stage who are ready to be taught knowledge and doctrine Isaiah 28:9.
The word H6267 carries significant conceptual weight in its limited appearances.
- Readiness for Divine Instruction: Its use in Isaiah establishes a powerful metaphor for spiritual growth. Being "drawn" from the milk is a prerequisite for understanding divine "knowledge" and "doctrine," suggesting that spiritual maturity is necessary to receive deeper truths from God Isaiah 28:9.
- Authority of Ancient Records: In 1 Chronicles, describing historical accounts as "ancient things" lends them an aura of authority and significance. It grounds the identity of a people in a past that is established and of great age 1 Chronicles 4:22.
- Transition to a New Relationship: The imagery of being weaned or "drawn" signifies a move from complete dependence to a new phase. This is not abandonment but a transition to a different form of provision, just as God promises to "deal bountifully" with his people in new ways Psalms 142:7, as seen in the related word H1580.
In summary, H6267 is a concise term with two important meanings: drawn and ancient. Though rare, it effectively illustrates the transition from foundational dependence to a readiness for deeper knowledge, as well as the value placed on historical antiquity. Through its use in scripture, ʻattîyq connects the tangible act of weaning a child to the profound spiritual concepts of maturation and the authority of tradition.
TRV