### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term riʼshônîy (`{{H7224}}`) is an adjective derived from the noun riʼshôn (`{{H7223}}`), which signifies "first," "beginning," or "chief." As an adjective, riʼshônîy carries the core meaning of "first," "former," "original," or "earlier." It primarily denotes temporal precedence, indicating something that existed or occurred prior to another. Its semantic range extends to encompass concepts of antiquity, priority in sequence, or a state that preceded a subsequent one. It is often used to distinguish between an earlier period or event and a later one, highlighting a progression or change.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word riʼshônîy (`{{H7224}}`) appears in various contexts throughout the Hebrew Bible, consistently emphasizing its meaning of "former" or "first."
* In legal and social contexts, it can refer to a prior state or relationship, as seen in [[Deuteronomy 24:4]], where it describes a "former husband" (ba'alah ha-riʼshônîy) in the context of divorce and remarriage. This usage underscores the legal distinction between an initial relationship and a subsequent one.
* Prophetic literature frequently employs riʼshônîy to contrast God's past declarations or actions with His future, often unprecedented, deeds. For instance, [[Isaiah 43:18]] exhorts, "Remember ye not the former things (riʼshônôth), neither consider the things of old." Here, the plural form of the adjective refers to past divine acts, setting the stage for God's declaration of "new things" (ḥadashah). Similarly, [[Isaiah 48:3]] states, "I have declared the former things (riʼshônôth) from the beginning; and they went forth out of my mouth, and I shewed them; suddenly I did them, and they came to pass." This highlights God's unique attribute of foreknowledge and His sovereign control over history.
* In historical narratives, riʼshônîy can delineate periods or leadership. [[Nehemiah 12:47]] speaks of "the days of Zerubbabel, and in the days of Nehemiah, the first (riʼshônîy)," indicating a specific earlier era of leadership.
* The word also appears in contexts comparing the initial state of something with its subsequent state, as in [[Haggai 2:9]], which contrasts the "glory of this latter house" with that "of the former (riʼshônîy)". This highlights a theological progression or transformation.
* In [[Jeremiah 30:3]], the phrase "former captivity" (shĕvuthām ha-riʼshônâh) refers to a past period of exile, distinguishing it from a future restoration.
### Related Words & Concepts
riʼshônîy (`{{H7224}}`) is intimately connected to its root, riʼshôn (`{{H7223}}`), which functions as a noun or adjective meaning "first," "beginning," or "chief." Both share the core concept of temporal or ordinal priority. The broader semantic field includes ro'sh (`{{H7218}}`), meaning "head" or "beginning," emphasizing primacy.
Its primary antonym is 'aḥarôn (`{{H314}}`), meaning "latter" or "last." The pairing of riʼshônîy or riʼshôn with 'aḥarôn creates a temporal juxtaposition (first/last, former/latter), which is particularly significant in prophetic discourse concerning the unfolding of God's plan.
Other related concepts include q_edem (`{{H6924}}`), which refers to antiquity or "from of old," often overlapping in meaning when speaking of ancient times or events. The interplay of these terms helps to establish chronological markers within biblical narratives and prophecies, distinguishing between past, present, and future divine acts.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of riʼshônîy (`{{H7224}}`) is profound, especially in its prophetic usage.
* **Divine Omniscience and Sovereignty:** In Isaiah, God's repeated declaration of "former things" (riʼshônôth) before they come to pass, in contrast to "new things," serves as irrefutable evidence of His unique deity and sovereign control over history ([[Isaiah 43:18-19]], [[Isaiah 48:3-6]]). Only the God of Israel can declare the end from the beginning, demonstrating His foreknowledge and power to bring His word to fruition. This usage underscores God's absolute authority and reliability.
* **Progressive Revelation and Redemptive History:** The distinction between "former" and "latter" (or "new") things, often implied by riʼshônîy, highlights the progressive nature of God's revelation and redemptive plan. While God's character is immutable, His actions in history unfold dynamically, moving from one stage to another (e.g., the former temple vs. the latter, [[Haggai 2:9]]). This allows for the anticipation of new divine interventions and a deepening understanding of His purposes.
* **Continuity and Discontinuity:** The word helps to articulate both continuity with God's past covenant faithfulness and the potential for discontinuity or newness in His future dealings. While God remembers His former covenants, He is also free to initiate new phases of His plan, often surpassing the glory of what came before.
* **Accountability to Past Commands:** In contexts like [[Deuteronomy 24:4]], the reference to "former" relationships or commands implicitly reminds the reader of established laws and the consequences of their violation, underscoring human responsibility before God.
### Summary
riʼshônîy (`{{H7224}}`) is an adjective meaning "first," "former," or "original," primarily denoting temporal precedence. It functions to distinguish an earlier state, event, or period from a subsequent one. Theologically, its most significant use is in prophetic literature, particularly in Isaiah, where God contrasts His declaration of "former things" with "new things" to powerfully assert His unique omniscience, sovereignty, and control over history. The word thus serves as a critical marker in understanding the unfolding of God's redemptive plan, highlighting both His unchanging faithfulness and His dynamic engagement with humanity throughout salvation history.
TRV