or אִתְמוֹל; or אֶתְמוּל; probably from אֵת or אֵת and מוּל; heretofore; definitely yesterday; [phrase] before (that) time, [phrase] heretofore, of late (old), [phrase] times past, yester(day).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼethmôwl**, represented by `{{H865}}`, signifies a past period of time, most simply defined as **yesterday**. It appears 8 times in 8 unique verses. Its meaning extends beyond a single day to encompass broader concepts such as 'before that time', 'heretofore', 'of late', and 'times past'.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H865}}` provides a temporal reference point for significant events. It is used to contrast God's eternal nature with the fleetingness of human existence, where a thousand years in His sight are like **yesterday** when it is past [[Psalms 90:4]]. The word frequently appears in the phrase 'heretofore' or 'in time past' to describe a previous era, such as the time before a new leader rose, as when the elders recall David’s leadership while Saul was king [[2 Samuel 5:2]]. It also marks a moment of unprecedented events, as when the Philistines expressed fear because "there hath not been such a thing **heretofore**" [[1 Samuel 4:7]]. The term can refer to both the distant past, as in Tophet being ordained "of old" [[Isaiah 30:33]], and the recent past, as when God’s people have risen up "of late" as an enemy [[Micah 2:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the temporal context of `{{H865}}`:
* `{{H8032}}` **shilshôwm** (day before yesterday): This term, meaning 'heretofore' or 'time past', is frequently paired with `{{H865}}` to form a compound phrase emphasizing a past state of affairs, as seen in the accounts of Saul and David ([[1 Samuel 10:11]], [[1 Samuel 19:7]]).
* `{{H5674}}` **ʻâbar** (to cross over): This root word is used to describe the action of time passing. In [[Psalms 90:4]], a thousand years are compared to yesterday once it has 'past' or crossed over.
* `{{H3915}}` **layil** (night): This word for 'night' is used in conjunction with `{{H865}}` in [[Psalms 90:4]] to provide a concrete measure of briefness, comparing a thousand years to both a past day and "a watch in the **night**".
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H865}}` is seen in how it frames God's relationship with time and history.
* **Divine Perspective:** The most significant use is in [[Psalms 90:4]], where **ʼethmôwl** illustrates the concept of eternity. A vast span of human history is but a fleeting moment, like **yesterday**, to God, highlighting His transcendence over time.
* **Historical Context for Covenant:** The word is used to mark pivotal moments in the history of God's people. It establishes the "time past" before David's sanctioned rule over Israel [[2 Samuel 5:2]] and sets a baseline for new and fearful events, like God's presence in the camp of the Philistines [[1 Samuel 4:7]].
* **Basis for Judgment:** In prophetic texts, **ʼethmôwl** grounds divine judgment in history. Tophet's purpose was established "of old" [[Isaiah 30:33]], and the people's rebellion "of late" [[Micah 2:8]] provides the immediate cause for divine response.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H865}}` is a multifaceted term for the past. While its simplest meaning is 'yesterday', it functions as a crucial narrative tool to define 'times past' and 'heretofore'. It serves to contrast the temporal human world with God's eternal nature, to mark significant historical transitions, and to provide a basis for divine judgment. From a single past day to an ancient era, **ʼethmôwl** provides a backdrop against which the actions of God and man unfold in Scripture.
TRV