or (shortened); אַתָּ; or אַת; feminine (irregular) sometimes אַתִּי; plural masculine אַתֶּם; feminine אַתֶּן; or אַתֵּנָהlemma אתֵּנָה missing vowel, corrected to אַתֵּנָה; or אַתֵּנָּה; a primitive pronoun of the second person; thou and thee, or (plural) ye and you; thee, thou, ye, you.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼattâh**, represented by `{{H859}}`, is a primitive pronoun of the second person. Its meaning translates to **thou** and **thee**, or its plural forms **ye** and **you**. It appears **11 times** across **11 unique verses**, making each occurrence a specific and direct form of address. Its primary function is to single out an individual or group for a direct statement, command, or definition of their nature.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H859}}` is used in moments of profound significance. God uses it when speaking to the serpent, declaring, "Because **thou** hast done this, **thou** art cursed" [[Genesis 3:14]]. It is also central to the declaration of humanity's mortal nature, "for dust **thou** art, and unto dust shalt thou return" [[Genesis 3:19]]. The term is vital in establishing covenants, as when God promises Noah, "**thou** shalt come into the ark" [[Genesis 6:18]]. It is also used in the plural to address the nation of Israel directly, as when God states through the prophet Ezekiel, "**ye** my flock... are men" [[Ezekiel 34:31]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the direct address of `{{H859}}`:
* `{{H120}}` **ʼâdâm** (man): In [[Ezekiel 34:31]], God identifies his flock by saying "**ye** `{{H859}}` my flock... are **men**," directly linking the pronoun to the definition of humanity.
* `{{H136}}` **ʼĂdônây** (the Lord): This name for God often precedes a direct address using `{{H859}}`, establishing the speaker's authority, as in "saith the **Lord** GOD" before a declaration to the people [[Ezekiel 34:17]].
* `{{H3069}}` **Yᵉhôvih** (God): Used alongside `{{H136}}`, this variation of God's name reinforces the divine identity of the one speaking directly to individuals or groups, such as in the prophecies of Ezekiel [[Ezekiel 13:20]].
* `{{H430}}` **ʼĕlôhîym** (God): The pronoun `{{H859}}` is frequently used in dialogue with or about **God**. Joseph uses it to frame his moral dilemma, stating he cannot sin against **God** because "**thou** art his wife" [[Genesis 39:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H859}}` lies in its direct and personal nature.
* **Divine Declaration:** The term is a vehicle for God to impart foundational truths, curses, and blessings directly to the subject, whether it be a person like Rebekah [[Genesis 24:60]] or the serpent [[Genesis 3:14]].
* **Covenantal Address:** It is instrumental in forming covenants. God singles out Noah with "**thou**" to establish the terms of his salvation and the preservation of life [[Genesis 6:18]].
* **Defining Relationships:** The pronoun clarifies the relationship between God and humanity. When God says, "**ye** my flock... are men, and I am your God," he uses `{{H859}}` to establish a personal, pastoral connection with his people [[Ezekiel 34:31]].
* **Moral Accountability:** It is used to establish direct, personal responsibility. Joseph's statement to Potiphar's wife uses "**thou**" to place the moral reality of her identity directly before her [[Genesis 39:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H859}}` is a potent word that signifies direct, unmediated address. While a simple pronoun, its usage in scripture is reserved for pivotal moments of definition, covenant, judgment, and blessing. It underscores the personal nature of God's interactions with His creation and highlights the importance of individual identity and accountability in the biblical narrative.
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