The Hebrew word tᵉmôwl, represented by H8543, functions as a key term for yesterday or a time past. It appears 23 times across 22 unique verses in the Bible. Its meaning ranges from the literal day before to the more general 'heretofore' or 'beforetime,' often establishing a point of reference in the past.
In biblical narratives, H8543 is frequently used to contrast a past state with a present reality. For instance, Jacob observed that Laban's countenance was not toward him "as before" (Genesis 31:2, Genesis 31:5). The term also plays a critical role in establishing legal precedent and intent, such as in the case of an ox that was "wont to push with his horn in time past" Exodus 21:29 or a slayer who had not hated his neighbor "in time past" Deuteronomy 19:4. In other contexts, it simply means "yesterday," as when Saul asks why David's place was empty "neither yesterday, nor to day" 1 Samuel 20:27.
Several related words help define temporal relationships:
- H8032 shilshôwm (heretofore, time past): This word is very often paired with H8543 to form an idiom for "time past" or "beforetime," as seen when the Israelites were no longer given straw "as heretofore" Exodus 5:7.
- H3117 yôwm (day, time): This word is often used in direct contrast to H8543 to distinguish "today" from "yesterday" Exodus 5:14.
- H227 'âz (then, since): This adverb provides a temporal contrast, as when Moses describes himself as not eloquent "neither heretofore... nor since thou hast spoken" Exodus 4:10.
The use of H8543 highlights several key themes:
- Establishing a Baseline for Change: The word frequently marks a previous state of affairs that has now been altered. This is seen in relational dynamics with Jacob and Laban Genesis 31:2, in divine or royal commands, like the change in labor for the Israelites Exodus 5:7, and in the natural world, as when the Jordan's waters returned to flow as they did before Joshua 4:18.
- Moral and Legal Culpability: In the Law, a person's history, as described by "time past," is essential for determining guilt. Whether a person hated another "in time past" distinguishes murder from manslaughter Deuteronomy 19:6, establishing a principle of premeditation.
- Human Perspective and Frailty: The word is used to express the brevity of human life and knowledge. Job states, "For we are but of yesterday, and know nothing," using the concept of recentness to illustrate humanity's limited perspective Job 8:9.
In summary, H8543 is a versatile temporal marker that extends beyond the simple meaning of "yesterday." It is a crucial component of idioms that define the past, serving as a benchmark for change in relationships, laws, and divine commands. From establishing legal intent in the laws of Moses to expressing the fleeting nature of human existence, tᵉmôwl provides a vital reference point for understanding events and responsibilities within the biblical narrative.
TRV