perhaps from בָּעָה (in the sense of asking); properly, a request; used only adverbially (always with 'my Lord'); oh that!; with leave, or if it please; alas, O, oh.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bîy**, represented by `{{H994}}`, is an adverbial term that functions as a **request**. It appears 12 times in 12 unique verses and is often translated as "oh," "alas," or "O." The word is consistently used as an earnest entreaty and, according to the available texts, always precedes a title of lordship, signaling a plea to a higher authority.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H994}}` is used in moments of critical need, desperation, or profound respect. It prefaces appeals made to both human and divine authorities. For example, Judah uses it when pleading for his brother's life before Joseph, whom he does not yet recognize as his brother, saying, "Oh{H994} my lord{H113}, let thy servant{H5650}, I pray thee, speak a word" [[Genesis 44:18]]. Similarly, Moses expresses his feelings of inadequacy directly to God, stating, "O{H994} my Lord{H136}, I am not eloquent" [[Exodus 4:10]]. The term is also used in a desperate plea for mercy, as when Aaron says to Moses, "Alas{H994}, my lord{H113}, I beseech thee, lay not the sin upon us" [[Numbers 12:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which `{{H994}}` is used:
* `{{H113}}` **ʼâdôwn** (lord, master, owner): This title for a human sovereign or master is frequently paired with `{{H994}}`. It is used by the woman appealing to King Solomon [[1 Kings 3:26]] and by Joseph's brothers addressing his steward [[Genesis 43:20]].
* `{{H136}}` **ʼĂdônây** ((my) Lord): This emphatic form is used as a proper name for God. It follows `{{H994}}` in direct addresses to God, such as in Gideon's questioning [[Judges 6:15]] and Joshua's lament after the defeat at Ai [[Joshua 7:8]].
* `{{H559}}` **ʼâmar** (to say): This common verb almost always introduces the dialogue containing the plea initiated by `{{H994}}`, as seen in nearly every occurrence, such as "And she said{H559}, Oh{H994} my lord{H113}..." [[1 Samuel 1:26]].
* `{{H5650}}` **ʻebed** (a servant): Speakers often identify themselves with this term when using `{{H994}}`, emphasizing a posture of submission to the one being addressed, as when Moses refers to himself as God's "servant{H5650}" [[Exodus 4:10]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H994}}` carries significant weight, establishing the nature of the interaction between the speaker and the one being addressed.
* **A Posture of Humility:** The word immediately establishes a subordinate relationship. It is a verbal bowing before making a request, acknowledging the authority and power of the lord being addressed, whether it is a king, a master, or God himself ([[Genesis 44:18]], [[Exodus 4:10]]).
* **A Formula for Access:** `{{H994}}` functions as a formal opening for making an urgent and important appeal. Manoah uses it to ask for divine guidance concerning his future child [[Judges 13:8]], and the wise mother uses it to gain the king's ear to save a life [[1 Kings 3:26]].
* **An Expression of Earnest Emotion:** The term conveys more than a simple request; it is laden with emotion, ranging from desperation and fear to sincere supplication. This is evident in Aaron's plea of "Alas" [[Numbers 12:11]] and Joshua's cry to the Lord after Israel's defeat [[Joshua 7:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H994}}` is a specialized term of entreaty rather than a simple interjection. It is a precise word used to preface a humble yet urgent request to a superior. Its consistent pairing with words for "lord"—both human `{{H113}}` and divine `{{H136}}`—demonstrates its role in formally signaling a speaker's submission and the gravity of their petition. This single word encapsulates a posture of reverence and dependence essential for approaching authority in the biblical world.
TRV