The Hebrew word pôh, represented by H6311, is a demonstrative particle used to specify this place. It appears 8 times across 6 unique verses in the Bible. While literally translating to here or hither, it serves a crucial function in defining specific physical and symbolic locations, sometimes used to denote "the one side" in contrast to another.
In the biblical narrative, H6311 is used to establish precise locations with significant implications. In Job, God uses it to set a divine boundary for the sea, saying H559, "Hitherto H5704{H6311} shalt thou come H935, but no further" Job 38:11. In Ezekiel's vision of the temple, it is used for architectural specificity, measuring posts "on the one side H6311, and six cubits broad on the other side H6311" Ezekiel 41:1. It also directs action toward a specific point, as when Samuel commands Jesse to fetch David, refusing to sit down "till he come H935 hither H6311" 1 Samuel 16:11.
Several related words expand upon the concept of place and movement:
- H4725 mâqôwm (a spot; but used widely of a locality): This word often provides the noun for the location that H6311 points to. For example, the command to Lot is to bring his family "out H3318 of this place" Genesis 19:12.
- H935 bôwʼ (to go or come): This word of movement is frequently paired with H6311 to indicate arrival at a designated spot. God commands the waves how far they can come Job 38:11, and Samuel waits for David to come hither 1 Samuel 16:11.
- H3318 yâtsâʼ (to go out): As the counterpart to coming, this word signifies departure from the location identified by H6311. In Genesis, Lot is told to bring them out of the place of impending judgment Genesis 19:12.
The theological weight of H6311 is demonstrated in its specific applications.
- Divine Boundaries: The term is used by God to establish His absolute authority over creation. By declaring to the sea "Hitherto H5704{H6311} shalt thou come" Job 38:11, H6311 marks the physical limit of natural forces, underscoring divine sovereignty.
- Focal Point of Action: The word "here" often designates a location of critical spiritual importance. It is the place from which Lot must be saved Genesis 19:12 and the place where an official's right to build a sepulchre is questioned, asking "What hast thou here? and whom hast thou here" Isaiah 22:16, making the location a stage for divine evaluation.
- Prophetic Precision: In Ezekiel's visions, H6311 provides meticulous detail, defining measurements "on this side H6311 and on that side H6311" Ezekiel 40:10. This highlights the deliberate and ordered nature of God's plans and revelations.
In summary, H6311 is more than a simple adverb of place. It is a precise designator that gives weight and specificity to its context. Whether establishing the limits of God's creation, identifying a site for salvation or judgment, or detailing the blueprint of a prophetic vision, pôh marks the exact spot where divine will and earthly reality intersect.
TRV