### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qadmâh**, represented by `{{H6927}}`, signifies **priority in time**. It appears **6 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. Based on the root word for priority, its meaning is applied both adverbially as "**before**" and as a noun for "**antiquity**" or a "**former (old) estate**."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H6927}}` points to a previous state or time. It is used adverbially in Psalms to describe grass withering "**afore**" it can grow up [[Psalms 129:6]]. In Isaiah, it refers to the deep history of a joyous city, questioning if its "**antiquity**" is from ancient days [[Isaiah 23:7]]. The most frequent application is found in Ezekiel, where it describes the promise of restoration to a "**former estate**." God promises to return Sodom, Samaria, and Israel to their "**former estate**" [[Ezekiel 16:55]] and to settle His people in their "**old estates**" [[Ezekiel 36:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a broader context for time and origin:
* `{{H6924}}` **qedem**: This is a closely related term meaning **the front, of place or time (antiquity)**. It is often used to mean "ancient" or "of old," as seen when describing God's works in the "**ancient** days" [[Isaiah 51:9]] or when He is called the "**eternal** God" [[Deuteronomy 33:27]].
* `{{H7221}}` **riʼshâh**: This word for **a beginning** is used in direct contrast to `{{H6927}}`. In God's promise of restoration, He states He will do better for Israel than at their "**beginnings**" after settling them in their "**old estates**" [[Ezekiel 36:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6927}}` centers on God's sovereignty over history and His power of restoration.
* **Divine Restoration:** The repeated promise to return people to their "**former estate**" underscores God's ability to reverse judgment and restore what was lost, a central theme in Ezekiel's prophecies [[Ezekiel 16:55]].
* **A Foundation for Better Things:** Restoration to a "**former estate**" is not merely a return to the past. It is presented as a precursor to an even greater blessing, as God promises to do better for His people than at their "**beginnings**" [[Ezekiel 36:11]].
* **God's Historical Perspective:** The concept of "**antiquity**" [[Isaiah 23:7]] places human history within the scope of God's eternal view, reminding the reader that God has been active from the "**ancient** days" [[Isaiah 51:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6927}}` is a concise term that carries significant meaning about past states and time. Whether used to describe something happening "**afore**" an event, a city's "**antiquity**," or a nation's "**former estate**," it consistently points backward. This backward glance in Scripture is often used to frame God's forward-looking promises of restoration and blessing.
TRV