Isaiah 1:18 — Word Study
WLCלְכוּ־ נָ֛א וְנִוָּֽכְחָ֖ה יֹאמַ֣ר יְהוָ֑ה אִם־ יִֽהְי֨וּ חֲטָאֵיכֶ֤ם כַּשָּׁנִים֙ כַּשֶּׁ֣לֶג יַלְבִּ֔ינוּ אִם־ יַאְדִּ֥ימוּ כַתּוֹלָ֖ע כַּצֶּ֥מֶר יִהְיֽוּ׃
BSAnownâʼ [let us have an argument together] let us reason togetheryâkach [accuse me] saysʼâmar▸ the LORDYᵉhôvâh [Yehovah, The covenant Name of God] Thoughʼim your sinschêṭᵉʼ [crimes or guilt] arehâyâh▸ like scarletshânîy [deep red, crimson] they will be as whitelâban▸ as snowsheleg [pure, clean] thoughʼim they are as redʼâdam▸ [flushed, turned red] as crimsontôwlâʻ [deep red, like the color of the coccus ilicis insect] they will becomehâyâh▸ like wooltsemer [white, warm, and pure]
| Greek | English | Parsing |
|---|---|---|
| לְכוּ־ | come | Verb, Qal, imperative second person masculine plural |
| נָ֛א | please | Particle |
| וְנִוָּֽכְחָ֖ה | so let us argue our case together | Conjunction, verb niphal infinitive construct first person common plural |
| יֹאמַ֣ר | he says | Verb, Qal, imperfect third person masculine singular |
| יְהוָ֑ה | Yahweh | Noun proper |
| אִם־ | though | Particle |
| יִֽהְי֨וּ | they are | Verb, Qal, imperfect third person masculine plural |
| חֲטָאֵיכֶ֤ם | sins your | Noun common masculine plural construct, suffix |
| כַּשָּׁנִים֙ | like scarlet | Preposition, noun common masculine plural absolute |
| כַּשֶּׁ֣לֶג | like snow | Preposition, noun common masculine singular absolute |
| יַלְבִּ֔ינוּ | they will become white | Verb, Hiphil, imperfect third person masculine plural |
| אִם־ | though | Particle |
| יַאְדִּ֥ימוּ | they are red | Verb, Hiphil, imperfect third person masculine plural |
| כַתּוֹלָ֖ע | like crimson | Preposition, noun common masculine singular absolute |
| כַּצֶּ֥מֶר | like wool | Preposition, noun common masculine singular absolute |
| יִהְיֽוּ׃ | they will be | Verb, Qal, imperfect third person masculine plural |
Every word in the verse. Click a row to open it in the panel on the left.
| BSB | “Come now, let us reason together,” says the LORD. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they will be as white as snow; though they are as red as crimson, they will become like wool. |
| KJV | Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. |
| ASV | Come now, and let us reason together, saith Jehovah: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. |
| YLT | Come, I pray you, and we reason, saith Jehovah, If your sins are as scarlet, as snow they shall be white, If they are red as crimson, as wool they shall be! |
| WEB | “Come now, and let’s reason together,” says Yahweh: “Though your sins are as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow. Though they are red like crimson, they shall be as wool. |
| BBE | Come now, and let us have an argument together, says the Lord: how may your sins which are red like blood be white as snow? how may their dark purple seem like wool? |
The translations agree on the essential meaning of the verse, particularly regarding the invitation to reason together.
The sentence consists of one main clause followed by two conditional phrases that illustrate the contrast between sin and redemption.







8 commentators on this verse
Gill, Jamieson, Poole, Trapp & more — read them ›
clause
subjectיהוה
verbהלך
The sentence as the grammar sees it Open the tree ›
Every word here is used elsewhere in the Old Testament.
Bars are logarithmic — אֵת, the commonest word in the Hebrew Bible, stands about 11,000 times, so a linear scale would leave everything else invisible. Click a row to open that word.
Deep Study — Isaiah 1:18
Sections marked generated are written from the data on this page rather than by a named author. Everything else — the lexicon entries, the cross references, the manuscript readings, the counts — is quoted from its source unchanged.
Context — The Call to Reasongenerated
Isaiah 1:18 presents a divine invitation from the LORD to His people, urging them to engage in a dialogue about their sins. This passage highlights the contrast between their sinful state and the potential for purity and redemption. The surrounding verses emphasize justice and righteousness, setting the stage for this plea for reconciliation. The LORD desires His people to understand the severity of their actions while offering hope for transformation, as seen in the preceding verses that call for justice and right living.
Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Isaiah 41:21 | “Present your case,” says the LORD. “Submit your arguments,” says the King of Jacob. |
| 2 | Isaiah 43:24–26 | You have not bought Me sweet cane with your silver, nor satisfied Me with the fat of your sacrifices. But you have burdened Me with your sins; you have wearied Me with your iniquities. |
| 3 | 1 Samuel 12:7 | Now present yourselves, so that I may confront you before the LORD with all the righteous acts He has done for you and your fathers. |
| 4 | Jeremiah 2:5 | This is what the LORD says: “What fault did your fathers find in Me that they strayed so far from Me, and followed worthless idols, and became worthless themselves? |
| 5 | Micah 6:2 | Hear, O mountains, the LORD’s indictment, you enduring foundations of the earth. For the LORD has a case against His people, and He will argue it against Israel: |
The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge — 14 references, hung on the phrase they belong to
The Key Word — יָכַח, ve.ni.va.khe.Chahgenerated
The verb יָכַח (yakach) means to argue, rebuke, or correct, indicating a call for accountability. It is a Niphal infinitive construct, suggesting a mutual engagement in reasoning. This word encompasses the idea of presenting a case or argument, emphasizing the importance of dialogue in addressing wrongdoing.
This term reflects the nature of God's relationship with His people, inviting them to confront their sins and consider the possibility of change. The use of this word underscores the seriousness of their situation while also implying that there is a path to restoration through honest reflection and repentance.
How Translations Differ — measured against the Berean Standard Biblegenerated
The translations generally agree on the meaning of יָכַח, with the BSB rendering it as argue our case together, while the KJV and ASV opt for reason together.
Sentence Structuregenerated
The verse is structured around a series of clauses, with the main verb being יֹאמַ֣ר, he says. The invitation to reason together is presented first, followed by the conditional statements regarding sin and its transformation. This structure emphasizes the LORD's direct speech and the conditional nature of the promises offered.
The clauses are interlinked, with the initial call to action leading into a description of the state of sin and the promise of cleansing. This flow highlights the progression from acknowledgment of sin to the hope of redemption.
Septuagint Backgroundgenerated
In the Septuagint, the Hebrew יָכַח is rendered as διελεγξθῶμεν, which conveys a sense of debate or examination. This choice suggests a more formalized argumentation process, indicating that the translators understood the dialogue as a serious inquiry into moral and ethical conduct.
The use of διελεγξθῶμεν also reflects a broader interpretative approach, emphasizing the need for accountability and correction in the relationship between God and His people.
In plain words — the whole versegenerated
Isaiah 1:18 invites God's people to come and reason together about their sins. The LORD acknowledges that their sins are deep red but offers hope that they can be made clean and white like snow. This verse emphasizes the possibility of transformation and the importance of addressing wrongdoing.
Frequently Asked Questionsgenerated
To reason together with the LORD means to engage in a dialogue about one's actions and their consequences, allowing for reflection and the possibility of change.
The comparison to scarlet and crimson emphasizes the deep and serious nature of sin, highlighting its visibility and the need for cleansing.
The promise to become white like snow symbolizes purity and forgiveness, indicating that despite deep sin, there is hope for redemption and a fresh start.
This verse encourages individuals to acknowledge their wrongdoings and seek transformation through honest dialogue with God, reminding us that change is possible.
Reflection Questionsgenerated
- In what areas of my life do I need to engage in honest dialogue with God about my actions?
- How can I better understand the seriousness of sin in my life, as illustrated by the colors scarlet and crimson?
- What steps can I take to seek transformation and purity in my life, trusting in God's promise?
- How does this verse encourage me to approach others who may be struggling with sin?
The early church on this verse — how the Fathers read it
Early Church Fathers referenced this verse to discuss themes of repentance and redemption, highlighting its significance in understanding God's grace.
And how those who have sinned and repent shall escape their sins, is declared by Esaias the prophet, as I wrote above; he thus speaks: "Wash you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from your souls; learn to do well;Early Church Fathers on Isaiah 1 →
In the scarlet color he indicates the blood of the prophets; in the crimson, that of the Lord, as the brighter.Early Church Fathers on Isaiah 1 →
The Father will be seated, having “his garment white as snow, and the hair of his head like the pure wool.” This is spoken anthropomorphically. And the spiritual sense? That he is the King of such as are not defiled with sins.Early Church Fathers on Isaiah 1 →
Commentators on this verse — 8 expositors, verse by verse
Each of these wrote on Isaiah 1:18 itself, not merely on the chapter around it.
John Gill1697–1771Gill's Exposition of the Entire BibleCome now, and let us reason, together, saith the Lord,.... These words stand not in connection either with the preceding or following, but are to be read in a parenthesis, and are thrown in for the
Read John Gill on Isaiah 1 →
Robert Jamieson1802–1880Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown's CommentaryCome now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. Come now ... let us reason together.
Read Robert Jamieson on Isaiah 1 →
Matthew Poole1624–1679Matthew Poole's Commentary on the Holy BibleCome now, and let us reason together; I am willing to lay aside my prerogative, and to submit the matter to a fair and equal trial, whether I do not deal justly in rejecting all your services, which are accompanied with such gross hypocrisy and wickedness, and whether I do not deal very graciously in offering mercy and pardon to you upon these conditions. Though your sins be as scarlet, red and bloody, as theirs were, , great and heinous, they shall be as white as snow; they shall be washed and purged by the blood of the Messias, whereby you shall be made white and pure in God’ s sight. It is a metonymical expression, as sins are said to be purged, , when men are purged from their sins, .…
Read Matthew Poole on Isaiah 1 →
John Trapp1601–1669Trapp's Complete Commentary on the Old and New TestamentsIsaiah 1:18 Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.Ver. 18. Come now, let us reason together.] In the Greek Church, at the beginning of divine service, the deacon cried out, Sacra sacris, Holy souls to holy service. God will not treat with this people till purified, till resolved upon better practices; as when he is content, by a wonderful condescension, to make them even as judges in their own cause. The Vulgate rendereth it, but not so well, Et venite et arguite me Though your sin be of scarlet.] Blood red, and of a double dye; sins in grain, enormia et…
Read John Trapp on Isaiah 1 →
Charles John Ellicott1819–1905Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers(18) Come now, and let us reason together.—The Authorised Version suggests the thought of a discussion between equals. The Hebrew implies rather the tone of one who gives an authoritative ultimatum, as from a judge to the accused, who had no defence, or only a sham defence, to offer (Micah 6:2-3). “Let us sum up the pleadings—that ultimatum is one of grace and mercy—‘Repent, and be forgiven.’” Though your sins be as scarlet.—The two colours probably corresponded to those now designated by the English words. Both words point to the dyes of Tyre, and the words probably received a fresh emphasis from the fact that robes of these colours were worn by the princes to whom Isaiah preached (2…
Read Charles John Ellicott on Isaiah 1 →
AdamClarkeAdam Clarke's Commentary on the BibleVerse 18. Though your sins be as scarlet] שני shani, "scarlet or crimson," dibaphum, twice dipped, or double dyed; from שנה shanah, iterare, to double, or to do a thing twice. This derivation seems much more probable than that which Salmasius prefers from שנן shanan, acuere, to whet, from the sharpness and strength of the colour, οξυφοινικον; תלע tela, the same; properly the worm, vermiculus, (from whence vermeil,) for this colour was produced from a worm or insect which grew in a coccus or excrescence of a shrub of the ilex kind, (see Plin. Nat. Hist. xvi. 8,) like the cochineal worm in the opuntia of America. See Ulloa's Voyage book v., chap. ii., note to page 342. There is a shrub of…
Read AdamClarke on Isaiah 1 →
Albert Barnes1798–1870Barnes' Notes on the BibleCome now - This is addressed to the nation of Israel; and the same exhortation is made to all sinners.
Read Albert Barnes on Isaiah 1 →
Daniel Denison Whedon1808–1885Whedon's Commentary on the Bible18-20. Revolting as the people’s acts have been, God is here pleading to show that their ill condition is of their own causing. Come now — This is a common formula of entreaty. Let us reason — Discuss the case together.
Read Daniel Denison Whedon on Isaiah 1 →The verse in English, compared — 17 translations, and where they part company
Every translation on this page is a decision someone had to make and commit to. Read down a column and you see one translator's judgement; read across a row and you see the range the Greek actually allows. The BSB is the wording the rest of this page is measured against, so it is listed first.
Modern formal
“Come now, let us reason together,” says the LORD. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they will be as white as snow; though they are as red as crimson, they will become like wool.
“Come now, and let’s reason together,” says Yahweh: “Though your sins are as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow. Though they are red like crimson, they shall be as wool.
“Come now, let us reason together,” says the LORD. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they will be as white as snow; though they are as red as crimson, they will become like wool.
Come, let’s consider your options,” says the Lord. “Though your sins have stained you like the color red, you can become white like snow; though they are as easy to see as the color scarlet, you can become white like wool.
Tyndale line
Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.
Come now, and let us reason together, saith Jehovah: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.
Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.
Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins are as scarlet, they shall be white as snow, though they are red like crimson, they shall be as wool.
Come nowe, and let vs reason together, sayth the Lord: though your sinnes were as crimsin, they shalbe made white as snowe: though they were red like skarlet, they shalbe as wooll.
Strictly literal
Come now, let us reason together, saith Jehovah: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.
Come, I pray you, and we reason, saith Jehovah, If your sins are as scarlet, as snow they shall be white, If they are red as crimson, as wool they shall be!
Now come, and we settle this,” says YHWH, “If your sins are as scarlet, they will be white as snow, || If they are red as crimson, they will be as wool!
Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins should be as scarlet, they shall become white as the snow; though they should be red like crimson, they shall become like wool.
“Come now, and let us reason together,” says Yahweh; “though your sins are like scarlet, they will be white like snow; though they are red like crimson, they will be like wool.
From the Latin
And then come, and accuse me, saith the Lord: if your sins be as scarlet, they shall be made as white as snow: and if they be red as crimson, they shall be white as wool.
Simplified
Come on, let's argue this out, says the Lord. Even though your sins are like scarlet, they will become white like snow. Even though they are red like crimson, they will become like wool.
Come now, and let us have an argument together, says the Lord: how may your sins which are red like blood be white as snow? how may their dark purple seem like wool?
Counted from the translations carried on this site, not from a survey of every English Bible. A rendering shared by many versions is usually inherited rather than independently arrived at — the Tyndale line in particular runs through most of them.
The sentence as the grammar sees it — from the MACULA Hebrew treebank
This is not our own analysis: it is the scholarly syntax tree for the verse, showing how the clause actually holds together.
Boxes are the grammarian's groupings — clause, noun phrase, prepositional phrase.
The four witnesses to this verse — Masoretic, Septuagint, Samaritan, Qumran
The Masoretic Text presents Isaiah 1:18 with the phrase “Come now, let us reason together,” and describes sins being compared to scarlet and crimson, which will become white as snow and like wool. The Septuagint largely agrees with the Masoretic Text, matching 14 of the 16 words, although it presents them in a different order and structure. The Dead Sea Scrolls — 1Qisaa also align closely with the Masoretic Text, with only minor differences in wording, while the 4Q60 version is less complete, containing several restored and supplied words. Overall, the major witnesses agree on the core message and imagery of the verse, though there are variations in wording and completeness in some manuscripts.
לְכוּ־ נָ֛א וְנִוָּֽכְחָ֖ה יֹאמַ֣ר יְהוָ֑ה אִם־ יִֽהְי֨וּ חֲטָאֵיכֶ֤ם כַּשָּׁנִים֙ כַּשֶּׁ֣לֶג יַלְבִּ֔ינוּ אִם־ יַאְדִּ֥ימוּ כַתּוֹלָ֖ע כַּצֶּ֥מֶר יִהְיֽוּ׃
14 of the 16 words are matched. This is the word-by-word correspondence, not the Septuagint's own sentence — its word order and its articles are its own.
לכו נא ונוכחה יואמר יהוה אמ יהיו חטאי׳כם כשני כשלג ילבינו אמ ידומו כתולעת כצמר יהיו
15 words on the leather — 1 partly restored.
[לכו] [נא] [ונוכח] יאמר יהוה [אם] [יהיו] [חטאי׳כם] [כשנים] [כשלג] [ילבינו] [אם] יאדמו כתולעת [כצמר] [יהיו]
2 words on the leather — 2 partly restored, 12 supplied entire by an editor.
Four traditions, not one. “On the leather” means the letters physically survive on the scroll, as against letters an editor has supplied to fill a hole in it — a restoration is a scholar’s reading, not a reading of the manuscript. Words in [square brackets] are supplied; the notes count them apart from what survives.
The map of this verse — what each word keeps company with
This is a map of two things, both counted rather than judged. Company kept: which words stand within three words of each of these, anywhere in the Hebrew Bible — the thicker the line, the more often the pair meet compared with chance. Built from: the words a word is made out of, taken from its own Strong’s entry. It is not a map of meaning: nothing here claims two words mean the same thing. Click any circle to see the numbers behind it.
Lexicons — every word in Isaiah 1:18
One dossier per word, with every reference work grouped by kind — Hebrew lexicons, morphology, Bible dictionaries, topical chains and the English of the translators themselves. The verse sits at the head of each block with the word under study lit, so you never lose your place. The panel above gives the short answer; this is the long one, and it is the part of the page worth indexing.
Every entry below is the lexicographer's own text. On the Hebrew: Brown-Driver-Briggs entire and its gloss set, Strong's Hebrew Dictionary, and Tyndale House's Translators Brief lexicon. Where a cell says a work has no entry, that work genuinely has none for this word.
הָלַךְ (halak) means 'to go,' 'come,' or 'walk,' and covers a wide range of literal and figurative uses, including aspects of life and death. It can describe physical movement, moral conduct, and even influence on character. The verb appears in various forms, such as Qal, Piel, and Hithpael, indicating different nuances like leading or traversing.
הָלַךְ 1546 vb. go, come, walk
Qal Impf. usually (629 t.) as if from ילך
lit.
of persons
Also of animals, in similar meanings and combinations
in like manner of inanimate things
The inf. abs. is often used
as in other vbs., quite independently
to intensify meaning of finite form
most noteworthy is the joining of the Inf. abs.
with a following Inf. abs. denoting a simutaneous action or process, and so emphasizing duration or continuance
with a foll. vb. fin. c. ו consec. (rare)
in cases where vb. fin. is foll. by Inf. abs. adj. denoting progress, advance
twice, where vb. fin. is not הלך, but another vb. denoting motion
quite by itself
13 t. the Inf. abs. = Imv. & is followed by Pf. consec.
akin to the use of Inf. abs. are some instances of Pt.
In combination with other verbal forms
Fig.; the most common uses follow; in most the origin in a literal meaning is evident:
pass away, die
H1980 הָלַךְ go, come, walk .Impf. usually (629 t.) as if from ילך . lit. . of persons
. Also of animals, in similar meanings and combinations
. in like manner of inanimate things
. The inf. abs. is often used . as in other vbs., quite independently
. to intensify meaning of finite form
. most noteworthy is the joining of the Inf. abs. . with a following Inf. abs. denoting a simutaneous action or process, and so emphasizing duration or continuance
. with a foll. vb. fin. c. ו consec. (rare)
. in cases where vb. fin. is foll. by Inf. abs. + adj. denoting progress, advance
. twice, where vb. fin. is not הלך, but another vb. denoting motion
. quite by itself
. 13 t. the Inf. abs. = Imv. & is followed by Pf. consec.
. akin to the use of Inf. abs. are some instances of Pt.
. In combination with other verbal forms
1980 halak haw-lak'
akin to 3212; a primitive root; to walk (in a great variety
of applications, literally and figuratively):--(all) along,
apace, behave (self), come, (on) continually, be conversant,
depart, + be eased, enter, exercise (self), + follow, forth,
forward, get, go (about, abroad, along, away, forward, on,
out, up and down), + greater, grow, be wont to haunt, lead,
march, X more and more, move (self), needs, on, pass (away),
be at the point, quite, run (along), + send, speedily, spread,
still, surely, + tale-bearer, + travel(-ler), walk (abroad,
on, to and fro, up and down, to places), wander, wax,
(way-)faring man, X be weak, whirl.
see HEBREW for 03212
הָלַךְ (ha.lakh) — to go: went.
: went/go[away]
1) to go, walk, come
1a) (Qal)
1a1) to go, walk, come, depart, proceed, move, go away
1a2) to die, live, manner of life (fig.)
1b) (Piel)
1b1) to walk
1b2) to walk (fig.)
1c) (Hithpael)
1c1) to traverse
1c2) to walk about
1d) (Niphal) to lead, bring, lead away, carry, cause to walk
הָלַךְ (ha.lakh) — to go: come.
: come[nearer]
1) to go, walk, come
1a) (Qal)
1a1) to go, walk, come, depart, proceed, move, go away
1a2) to die, live, manner of life (fig.)
1b) (Piel)
1b1) to walk
1b2) to walk (fig.)
1c) (Hithpael)
1c1) to traverse
1c2) to walk about
1d) (Niphal) to lead, bring, lead away, carry, cause to walk
הָלַךְ (ha.lakh) — to go: walk.
: walk/move
1) to go, walk, come
1a) (Qal)
1a1) to go, walk, come, depart, proceed, move, go away
1a2) to die, live, manner of life (fig.)
1b) (Piel)
1b1) to walk
1b2) to walk (fig.)
1c) (Hithpael)
1c1) to traverse
HVqv2mp — Verb · Qal · imperative second person masculine pluralHVqv2mp
kum: The translation of many Hebrew and Greek words. In the phrase "The Spirit of Yahweh came mightily upon him" (Jud 14:6,19; 15:14; 1Sa 10:10; 11:6; 16:13), the word is tsaleah; Jud 14:6; 15:14 "came mightily," which is the uniform translation of the Revised Version (British and American) (compare Jud 13:25 "to move," i.e. to disturb or stir up). In Jud 6:34; 1Ch 12:18; 2Ch 24:20, it is labhesh, "to clothe"; the Revised Version, margin "The Spirit .... clothed itself with Gideon" and .... "with Zechariah,"…
נָא (na') is a Hebrew particle used primarily for entreaty or exhortation, meaning 'I pray,' 'now,' or 'please.' It often appears attached to verbs in the imperative or future forms, and can also modify interjections, adverbs, or conjunctions. The entries consistently emphasize its role in expressing a plea or request.
נָא part. of entreaty or exhortation, I (we) pray, now (enclitic)
base
H4994 נָא I (we) pray, now (enclitic)
4994 na' naw
a primitive particle of incitement and entreaty, which may
usually be rendered: "I pray," "now," or "then"; added mostly
to verbs (in the Imperative or Future), or to interjections,
occasionally to an adverb or conjunction:--I beseech (pray)
thee (you), go to, now, oh.
נָא (na) — please.
1) I (we) pray, now, please
1a) used in entreaty or exhortation
Part — ParticleHTj
The Hebrew word יָכַח (yakach) is a primitive root that encompasses a range of meanings related to judgment and correction, including to decide, prove, and rebuke. It appears in various forms, such as Hiphil for active judgment and Niphal for reasoning together. Notably, it conveys ideas of justification and argumentation, with some entries referencing the concept of being chastened.
[יָכַח] vb. Hiph. decide, adjudge, prove
Hiph.
decide, judge
adjudge, appoint
shew to be right, prove
convince, convict
reprove, chide
correct, rebuke
Hoph. he is chastened also with pain
Niph. come now and let us reason together; there an upright man might reason with him; and thou art set right, righted, justified
Hithp. with Israel he will argue
base
H3198 יָכַח Hiph. decide, adjudge, prove . . decide, judge
. adjudge, appoint
. shew to be right, prove
. convince, convict
. reprove, chide
. correct, rebuke
. he is chastened also with pain
. come now and let us reason together; there an upright man might reason with him; and thou art set right, righted, justified
. with Israel he will argue
3198 yakach yaw-kahh'
a primitive root; to be right (i.e. correct); reciprocal, to
argue; causatively, to decide, justify or convict:--appoint,
argue, chasten, convince, correct(-ion), daysman, dispute,
judge, maintain, plead, reason (together), rebuke,
reprove(-r), surely, in any wise.
יָכַח (ya.khach) — to rebuke.
1) to prove, decide, judge, rebuke, reprove, correct, be right
1a) (Hiphil)
1a1) to decide, judge
1a2) to adjudge, appoint
1a3) to show to be right, prove
1a4) to convince, convict
1a5) to reprove, chide
1a6) to correct, rebuke
1b) (Hophal) to be chastened
1c) (Niphal) to reason, reason together
1d) (Hithp) to argue
Conj | V-Niphal-1cp — Conjunction · verb niphal infinitive construct first person common pluralHC/VNc1cp
אָמַר (amar) is a Hebrew verb meaning 'to say' or 'to utter,' with a broad range of uses including to promise, command, or even boast. It appears in various forms, such as in the Qal (to say), Niphal (to be told), and Hiphil (to avow). The entries highlight its versatility in both spoken and internal contexts, though no specific verse is noted.
אָמַר 5287 vb. utter, say
Qal
Say
Say in the heart (= think)
Promise
Command (esp. late)
Niph. be said, told
Hiph. avow, avouch (lit. cause to declare)
Hithp. act proudly, boast
base
H559 אָמַר utter, say .. Say
. Say in the heart (= think)
. Promise
. Command (esp. late)
. be said, told
. avow, avouch (lit. cause to declare)
. act proudly, boast
559 'amar aw-mar'
a primitive root; to say (used with great
latitude):--answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call,
certify, challenge, charge, + (at the, give) command(-ment),
commune, consider, declare, demand, X desire, determine, X
expressly, X indeed, X intend, name, X plainly, promise,
publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), X still, X
suppose, talk, tell, term, X that is, X think, use (speech),
utter, X verily, X yet.
אָמַר (a.mar) — to say.
1) to say, speak, utter
1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend
1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called
1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly
1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch
Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)
V-Qal-Imperf-3ms — Verb · Qal · imperfect third person masculine singularHVqi3ms
יְהֹוָה (ye.ho.vah) is the proper name of the God of Israel, often rendered as Jehovah or the Lord. It signifies the self-existent or eternal nature of God. The name is closely associated with the revelation to Moses in Exodus 3:12-15 and is used in conjunction with other terms to denote sacred places. Some scholars suggest it derives from a root meaning 'to bring into being.'
יהוה c. 6823 i.e. יַהְוֶה n.pr.dei Yahweh, the proper name of the God of Israel—(1. MT יְהֹוָה 6518 (Qr אֲדֹנָי), or יֱהֹוִה 305 (Qr אֱלֹהִים) 2. Many recent scholars explain יַהְוֶה as Hiph. of הוה (= היה) the one bringing into being, life-giver)
יהוה is not used by E in Gn, but is given Ex 3:12-15 as the name of the God who revealed Himself to Moses at Horeb
יהוה is used with אלהים and suffixes, especially in D
the phrase † אֲנִי יהוה is noteworthy
יהוה is also used with several predicates, to form sacred names of holy places of Yahweh
base
H3068 יהוה i.e. יַהְוֶה n. pr. dei Yahweh, the proper name of the God of Israel
3068 Yhovah yeh-ho-vaw'
from 1961; (the) self-Existent or Eternal; Jehovah, Jewish
national name of God:--Jehovah, the Lord. Compare 3050, 3069.
see HEBREW for 01961
see HEBREW for 03050
see HEBREW for 03069
יְהֹוָה (ye.ho.vah) — LORD.
Jehovah = "the existing One"
1) the proper name of the one true God
1a) unpronounced except with the vowel pointings of a.do.na (אֲדֹנָי "Lord" H0136)
יְהֹוָה (ye.ho.vah) — The Lord.
Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)
יְהֹוָה (ye.ho.vah) — (Jerusalem of) the Lord.
Combined with ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)
N-proper — Noun properHNpt
אִם (im) is a Hebrew conjunction primarily meaning 'if' and is used in various contexts, including conditional clauses and interrogative situations. It can also express negation, alternatives, or exceptions, and appears frequently in the Old Testament. The lexicons note its use in oaths and its ability to connect different clauses, sometimes altering their meanings.
אִם conj.
hypoth. part. if
Interrog. part.
base
כִּי אם־
each part. retaining its independent force, and relating to a different clause:
that if
for if
(About 140 t.) the two particles being closely conjoined, and relating to the same clause—
limiting the prec. clause, except
the if being neglected, and treated as pleonastic, so that the clause is no longer a limitation of the preceding clause but a contradiction of it: but rather, but
after an oath, surely
base
H518a אִם conj. . hypoth. part. if
. Interrog. part.
H518b כִּי אם־ . each part. retaining its independent force, and relating to a different clause: . that if
. for if
. (About 140 t.) the two particles being closely conjoined, and relating to the same clause— . limiting the prec. clause, except
. the if being neglected, and treated as pleonastic, so that the clause is no longer a limitation of the preceding clause but a contradiction of it: but rather, but
. after an oath, surely
518 'im eem
a primitive particle; used very widely as demonstrative, lo!;
interrog., whether?; or conditional, if, although; also Oh
that!, when; hence, as a negative, not:--(and, can-,
doubtless, if, that) (not), + but, either, + except, +
more(-over if, than), neither, nevertheless, nor, oh that, or,
+ save (only, -ing), seeing, since, sith, + surely (no more,
none, not), though, + of a truth, + unless, + verily, when,
whereas, whether, while, + yet.
אִם (im) — if.
: if/whether_or/though
1) if
1a) conditional clauses
1a1) of possible situations
1a2) of impossible situations
1b) oath contexts
1b1) no, not
1c) if...if, whether...or, whether...or...or
1d) when, whenever
1e) since
1f) interrogative particle
1g) but rather
[כִּי] אם (ki im) — if: except.
1) except if
1a) but if
אִם (im) — if: surely no.
: surely_no
1) if
1a) conditional clauses
1a1) of possible situations
1a2) of impossible situations
1b) oath contexts
1b1) no, not
1c) if...if, whether...or, whether...or...or
1d) when, whenever
1e) since
1f) interrogative particle
1g) but rather
אִם (im) — if: surely yes.
: surely_yes
1) if
1a) conditional clauses
1a1) of possible situations
1a2) of impossible situations
1b) oath contexts
1b1) no, not
1c) if...if, whether...or, whether...or...or
1d) when, whenever
1e) since
1f) interrogative particle
1g) but rather
אִם (im) — if: until.
: until/except
Conj — ParticleHTc
The Hebrew word הָיָה (hayah) is a primitive root meaning to exist or become, and it encompasses a range of meanings including to happen, occur, and come to pass. It is often used in narrative contexts, particularly in phrases like "and it came to pass." The word can also denote a state of being or existence, and it appears frequently in various forms throughout the Old Testament.
הָיָה 3570 vb. fall out, come to pass, become, be
Qal
Fall out, happen
occur, take place, come about, come to pass
esp. & very oft., come about, come to pass
וַיְהִי and it came to pass that, most often (c. 292 t.)
rarely also Pf. c. וְ conj. וְהָיָה
less oft. וְהָיָה Pf. consec. and it shall come to pass, or frequentat. came to pass (repeatedly, etc.)
Come into being, become
abs., in lively narrative, arise, appear, come
sq. prep.
become
sq. pred. noun (to be viewed as implicit accus.)
sq. pred. adj.
become like
sq. pred. לְ pers.
sq. לְ pred.
oft. c. לְ pred. לְ pers.
with עַל and לְ
sts. c. לְ pers. only = became the property of, come into the possession of
Be (often with subbordinate idea of becoming)
exist, be in existence
abide, remain, continue
with word of locality, be in or at a place, be situated, stand, lie
as copula, joining subj. & pred.
H1961 הָיָה fall out, come to pass, become, be .. . . Fall out, happen
. occur, take place, come about, come to pass
. esp. & very oft., come about, come to pass . . וַיְהִי and it came to pass that, most often (c. 292 t.)
. rarely also Pf. c. וְ conj. וְהָיָה
. less oft. וְהָיָה Pf. consec. and it shall come to pass, or frequentat. came to pass (repeatedly, etc.)
. Come into being, become . . abs., in lively narrative, arise, appear, come
. sq. prep.
. become . sq. pred. noun (to be viewed as implicit accus.)
. sq. pred. adj.
. become like
. sq. pred. + לְ pers.
. sq. לְ pred.
. oft. c. לְ pred. + לְ pers.
. with עַל and לְ
. sts. c. לְ pers. only = became the property of, come into the possession of
. Be (often with subbordinate idea of becoming) . exist, be in existence
. abide, remain, continue
1961 hayah haw-yaw
a primitive root (compare 1933); to exist, i.e. be or become,
come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or
auxiliary):--beacon, X altogether, be(-come), accomplished,
committed, like), break, cause, come (to pass), do, faint,
fall, + follow, happen, X have, last, pertain, quit
(one-)self, require, X use.
see HEBREW for 01933
הָיָה (ha.yah) — to be.
1) to be, become, come to pass, exist, happen, fall out
1a) (Qal)
1a1) ---
1a1a) to happen, fall out, occur, take place, come about, come to pass
1a1b) to come about, come to pass
1a2) to come into being, become
1a2a) to arise, appear, come
1a2b) to become
1a2b1) to become
1a2b2) to become like
1a2b3) to be instituted, be established
1a3) to be
1a3a) to exist, be in existence
1a3b) to abide, remain, continue (with word of place or time)
1a3c) to stand, lie, be in, be at, be situated (with word of locality)
1a3d) to accompany, be with
1b) (Niphal)
1b1) to occur, come to pass, be done, be brought about
1b2) to be done, be finished, be gone
V-Qal-Imperf-3mp — Verb · Qal · imperfect third person masculine pluralHVqi3mp
חֵטְא (chet) refers to sin, encompassing the concepts of guilt associated with sin and the punishment that follows. It is derived from a root meaning 'to miss' or 'to err.' The term appears in various contexts in the Old Testament, highlighting both the act of sinning and its consequences.
חֵטְא n.m. sin
sin
guilt of sin
punishment for sin
base
H2399 חֵטְא sin . sin
. guilt of sin
. punishment for sin
2399 chet' khate
from 2398; a crime or its penalty:--fault, X grievously,
offence, (punishment of) sin.
see HEBREW for 02398
חֵטְא (chet) — sin.
1) sin
1a) sin
1b) guilt for sin
1c) punishment for sin
Aramaic equivalent: cha.ti (חֲטָי "sin" H2408)
N-mp | Suff — Noun common masculine plural construct · suffixHNcmpc/Sp2mp
שָׁנִי (shaniy) refers to the color scarlet or crimson, derived from the insect coccus ilicis, which produces a dye. The entries indicate it can refer both to the insect itself and to the fabric dyed with its coloring matter.
שָׁנִי 42 n.[m.] scarlet (prop. coccus ilicis, which attaches itself to leaves and twigs of quercus coccifera; the dried body of female yields colouring matter)
base
H8144 שָׁנִי scarlet (prop. coccus ilicis, which attaches itself to leaves and twigs of quercus coccifera; the dried body of female yields colouring matter)
8144 shaniy shaw-nee'
of uncertain derivation; crimson, properly, the insect or its
color, also stuff dyed with it:--crimson, scarlet (thread).
שָׁנִי (sha.ni) — scarlet.
1) scarlet, crimson
1a) properly, the insect 'coccus ilicis', the dried body of the female yielding colouring matter from which is made the dye used for cloth to colour it scarlet or crimson
Prep | N-mp — Preposition · noun common masculine plural absoluteHRd/Ncmpa
skar'-let.
See COLORS; DYEING.
Scarlet
This dye was obtained by the Egyptians from the shell-fish Carthamus tinctorius; and by the Hebrews from the Coccus ilicis, an insect which infests oak trees, called kermes by the Arabians.
This colour was early known (Gen. 38:28). It was one of the colours of the ephod (Ex. 28:6), the girdle (8), and the breastplate (15) of the high priest. It is also mentioned in various other connections (Josh. 2:18; 2 Sam. 1:24; Lam. 4:5; Nahum 2:3). A scarlet robe was in mockery placed on our Lord (Matt. 27:28;
[COLORS]
A color much prized by the ancients, Ex 25:4 26:1,31,36. It is assigned as a merit of Saul, that he clothed the daughters of Israel in scarlet, 2Sa 1:24. So the diligent and virtuous woman is said to clothe her household in scarlet, Pr 31:21. The depth and strength of the color are alluded to in Isa 1:18; and it is used as a symbol of profligacy in Re 17:3,4. This color was obtained from the Coccus Ilicis of Linnaeus, a small insect found on the leaves of a species of oak, the Quercus Cocciferus, in Spain and the countries on the eastern part of the Mediterranean, which was used by the ancients for dyeing a beautiful…
שֶׁ֫לֶג (sheleg) means 'snow' and is derived from the root word for whiteness. It is consistently defined across entries as snow, with a reference to its Aramaic equivalent, תְּלַג (te.lag). The term appears in contexts related to snow in the Old Testament.
שֶׁ֫לֶג n.m. snow
base
H7950 שֶׁ֫לֶג snow
7950 sheleg sheh'-leg
from 7949; snow (probably from its whiteness):--snow(-y).
see HEBREW for 07949
שֶׁ֫לֶג (she.leg) — snow.
snow
Aramaic equivalent: te.lag (תְּלַג "snow" H8517)
Prep | N-ms — Preposition · noun common masculine singular absoluteHRd/Ncmsa
sno (shelegh, telagh (Da 7:9); chion):
(1) Snow is not uncommon in the winter in Jerusalem, but it never reaches any depth and in many winters it is not seen at all. It usually disappears, for the most part, as soon as the sun appears, though it may "hide itself" for a time in the gorge cut by a stream (Job 6:16). On lower levels than Jerusalem there is never sufficient to cover the ground, though often there are some flakes seen in the air. Even at sea-level there is occasionally a sufficient fall of hail to cover the ground. A very exceptional snowfall is related in 1 Macc 13:22 at Adora (near Hebron). It was heavy enough to prevent the movement of troops.
Snow
Common in Palestine in winter (Ps. 147:16). The snow on the tops of the Lebanon range is almost always within view throughout the whole year. The word is frequently used figuratively by the sacred writers (Job 24:19; Ps. 51:7; 68:14; Isa. 1:18). It is mentioned only once in the historical books (2 Sam. 23:20). It was “carried to Tyre, Sidon, and Damascus as a luxury, and labourers sweltering in the hot harvest-fields used it for the purpose of cooling the water which they drank (Prov. 25:13; Jer. 18:14).…
This historical books of the Bible contain only two notices of snow actually falling -- (2 Samuel 23:20) 1Macc 13:22; but the allusions in the poetical books are so numerous that there can be no doubt as to its being an ordinary occurrence in the winter months. (Psalms 147:16; 148:8) The snow lies deep in the ravines of the highest ridge of Lebanon until the summer is far advanced and indeed never wholly disappears; the summit of Hermon also perpetually glistens with frozen snow. From these sources probably the Jews obtained their supplies of ice for the purpose of cooling their beverages in summer. (Proverbs 25:13) The liability to snow must of course vary considerably in a country of such varying altitude as Palestine. At…
Is often alluded to in Scripture, for its whiteness, Ex 4:6; Nu 12:10; 2Ki 5:27; Ps 51:7; Isa 1:18, and for its cleansing qualities, Job 9:30. The expression in Pr 25:13, "as the cold of snow in the time of harvest," alludes to its use in preparing cool drinks for the reapers; while on the other hand, in Pr 26:1, "snow in summer," that is, a fall of snow, being unseasonable and unnatural, is compared to honors inappropriately lavished on a fool. Snow from…
The Hebrew word לָבֵן (*laben*) has two primary meanings: to be white and to make bricks. It can refer to the process of becoming white or purifying in an ethical sense, as well as the act of making bricks. The entries indicate that it is derived from a primitive root and is used in various forms, including Hiphil and Hithpael.
[לָבֵן] vb. be white
Hiph.
make white = purify (ethical)
shew whiteness, grow white, of fig tree, stripped by locusts
Hithp. be purified
base
[לָבַן] vb. denom. make brick
base
H3835a לָבֵן be white H3835b לָבַן vb. denom. make brick
3835 laban law-ban'
a primitive root; to be (or become) white; also (as
denominative from 3843) to make bricks:--make brick, be (made,
make) white(-r).
see HEBREW for 03843
לָבֵן (la.ven) — to whiten.
1) to be white
1a) (Hiphil)
1a1) to make white, become white, purify
1a2) to show whiteness, grow white
1b) (Hithpael) to become white, be purified (ethical)
לָבַן (la.van) — to make bricks.
(Qal) to make bricks
V-Hiphil-Imperf-3mp — Verb · Hiphil · imperfect third person masculine pluralHVhi3mp
hwit.
See COLORS.
White
A symbol of purity (2 Chr. 5:12; Ps. 51:7; Isa. 1:18; Rev. 3:18; 7:14). Our Lord, at his transfiguration, appeared in raiment “white as the light” (Matt. 17:2, etc.).
→ See COLOR
אִם (im) is a Hebrew conjunction primarily meaning 'if' and is used in various contexts, including conditional clauses and interrogative situations. It can also express negation, alternatives, or exceptions, and appears frequently in the Old Testament. The lexicons note its use in oaths and its ability to connect different clauses, sometimes altering their meanings.
אִם conj.
hypoth. part. if
Interrog. part.
base
כִּי אם־
each part. retaining its independent force, and relating to a different clause:
that if
for if
(About 140 t.) the two particles being closely conjoined, and relating to the same clause—
limiting the prec. clause, except
the if being neglected, and treated as pleonastic, so that the clause is no longer a limitation of the preceding clause but a contradiction of it: but rather, but
after an oath, surely
base
H518a אִם conj. . hypoth. part. if
. Interrog. part.
H518b כִּי אם־ . each part. retaining its independent force, and relating to a different clause: . that if
. for if
. (About 140 t.) the two particles being closely conjoined, and relating to the same clause— . limiting the prec. clause, except
. the if being neglected, and treated as pleonastic, so that the clause is no longer a limitation of the preceding clause but a contradiction of it: but rather, but
. after an oath, surely
518 'im eem
a primitive particle; used very widely as demonstrative, lo!;
interrog., whether?; or conditional, if, although; also Oh
that!, when; hence, as a negative, not:--(and, can-,
doubtless, if, that) (not), + but, either, + except, +
more(-over if, than), neither, nevertheless, nor, oh that, or,
+ save (only, -ing), seeing, since, sith, + surely (no more,
none, not), though, + of a truth, + unless, + verily, when,
whereas, whether, while, + yet.
אִם (im) — if.
: if/whether_or/though
1) if
1a) conditional clauses
1a1) of possible situations
1a2) of impossible situations
1b) oath contexts
1b1) no, not
1c) if...if, whether...or, whether...or...or
1d) when, whenever
1e) since
1f) interrogative particle
1g) but rather
[כִּי] אם (ki im) — if: except.
1) except if
1a) but if
אִם (im) — if: surely no.
: surely_no
1) if
1a) conditional clauses
1a1) of possible situations
1a2) of impossible situations
1b) oath contexts
1b1) no, not
1c) if...if, whether...or, whether...or...or
1d) when, whenever
1e) since
1f) interrogative particle
1g) but rather
אִם (im) — if: surely yes.
: surely_yes
1) if
1a) conditional clauses
1a1) of possible situations
1a2) of impossible situations
1b) oath contexts
1b1) no, not
1c) if...if, whether...or, whether...or...or
1d) when, whenever
1e) since
1f) interrogative particle
1g) but rather
אִם (im) — if: until.
: until/except
Conj — ParticleHTc
The Hebrew word אָדֹם (*'adam*) means 'to be red' and encompasses various forms of redness, such as flushing or turning rosy. It includes uses in different verbal stems, indicating actions like reddening, being dyed red, or showing redness. The entries highlight its application to individuals, such as Nazirites, who are described as ruddy.
[אָדֹם, אָדֵם] vb. be red
Qal ruddy, of Nazirites
Pu. Pt. reddened, dyed red
Hithp. Impf. redden, grow or look red
Hiph. Impf. emit (show) redness
base
H119 אָדֹם, אָדֵם be red
119 'adam aw-dam'
to show blood (in the face), i.e. flush or turn rosy:--be
(dyed, made) red (ruddy).
אָדֹם (a.dam) — to redden.
1) to be red, red
1a) (Qal) ruddy (of Nazarites)
1b) (Pual)
1b1) to be rubbed red
1b2) dyed red
1b3) reddened
1c) (Hiphil)
1c1) to cause to show red
1c2) to glare
1c3) to emit (show) redness
1d) (Hithpael)
1d1) to redden
1d2) to grow red
1d3) to look red
V-Hiphil-Imperf-3mp — Verb · Hiphil · imperfect third person masculine pluralHVhi3mp
תּוֹלָע (towla') refers to a worm, specifically the crimson-grub from which scarlet dye is made. It can also denote scarlet stuff or crimson color derived from this worm. The feminine forms תּוֹלֵעָה (towle'ah) and תּוֹלַ֫עַת (tolai'ath) also mean worm. The entries indicate a connection between the worm and the dye used in textiles.
תּוֹלָע n.[m.] worm, scarlet stuff
base
תּוֹלֵעָה, תּוֹלַ֫עַת 40 n.f. worm
base
H8438a תּוֹלָע worm, scarlet stuff H8438b תּוֹלֵעָה, תּוֹלַ֫עַת worm
8438 towla` to-law'
and (feminine) towleoah {to-lay-aw'}; or towla ath
{to-lah'-ath}; or tolaiath {to-lah'-ath}; from 3216; a maggot
(as voracious); specifically (often with ellipsis of 8144) the
crimson-grub, but used only (in this connection) of the color
from it, and cloths dyed therewith:--crimson, scarlet, worm.
see HEBREW for 03216
see HEBREW for 08144
תּוֹלָע (to.la) — worm.
1) worm, scarlet stuff, crimson
1a) worm-the female 'coccus ilicis'
1b) scarlet stuff, crimson, scarlet
1b1) the dye made from the dried body of the female of the worm "coccus ilicis"
Also means: to.le.ah (תּוֹלֵעָה "worm" H8438B)
תּוֹלֵעָה (to.le.ah) — worm.
1) worm, maggot
1a) worm, grub
1b) the worm "coccus ilicis"
Prep | N-cs — Preposition · noun common masculine singular absoluteHRd/Ncmsa
See COLORS.
Crimson
See COLOUR.
2Ch 2:7-14 3:14. See PURPLE.
→ See COLOR
צֶ֫מֶר (tsemer) means 'wool' and is likely derived from a root meaning to be shaggy. It covers the literal sense of wool and can also refer to whiteness metaphorically. The term appears in contexts related to garments. There is an Aramaic equivalent, עֲמַר (amar), which also means 'wool.'
צֶ֫מֶר n.m. wool
base
H6785 צֶ֫מֶר wool
6785 tsemer tseh'-mer
from an unused root probably meaning to be shaggy;
wool:--wool(-len).
צֶ֫מֶר (tse.mer) — wool.
1) wool
1a) wool
1b) whiteness (metaph.)
1c) wool (in garments)
Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (עֲמַר "wool" H6015)
Prep | N-ms — Preposition · noun common masculine singular absoluteHRd/Ncmsa
wool (tsemer; erion): Wool and flax were the fibers most used by the ancient weavers. Wool was used principally for the outside garments (Le 13:48 ff; Pr 31:13; Eze 34:3; Ho 2:5,9). Syrian wool is found on the world's markets today, but it is not rated as first quality, partly because it is so contaminated with thorns, straw and other foreign matter which become entangled with the wool while the sheep are wandering over the barren, rocky mountain sides in search of food. Extensive pastures are almost unknown.
Two kinds of wool are sold:
(1) That obtained by shearing. This is removed from the animal as far as possible in one piece or fleece usually without previous washing.…
Wool
One of the first material used for making woven cloth (Lev. 13:47, 48, 52, 59; 19:19). The first-fruit of wool was to be offered to the priests (Deut. 18:4). The law prohibiting the wearing of a garment “of divers sorts, as of woollen and linen together” (Deut. 22:11) may, like some other laws of a similar character, have been intended to express symbolically the separateness and simplicity of God’s covenant people. The wool of Damascus, famous for its whiteness, was of great repute in the Tyrian market (Ezek. 27:18).
was an article of the highest value among the Jews, as the staple material for the manufacture of clothing. (Leviticus 13:47; 22:11; Job 31:20; Proverbs 31:13; Ezekiel 34:3; Hosea 2:5) The importance of wool is incidentally shown by the notice that Mesha’s tribute was paid in a certain number of rams "with the wool." (2 Kings 3:1) The wool of Damascus was highly prized in the mart of Tyre. (Ezekiel 27:18)
The Hebrew word הָיָה (hayah) is a primitive root meaning to exist or become, and it encompasses a range of meanings including to happen, occur, and come to pass. It is often used in narrative contexts, particularly in phrases like "and it came to pass." The word can also denote a state of being or existence, and it appears frequently in various forms throughout the Old Testament.
הָיָה 3570 vb. fall out, come to pass, become, be
Qal
Fall out, happen
occur, take place, come about, come to pass
esp. & very oft., come about, come to pass
וַיְהִי and it came to pass that, most often (c. 292 t.)
rarely also Pf. c. וְ conj. וְהָיָה
less oft. וְהָיָה Pf. consec. and it shall come to pass, or frequentat. came to pass (repeatedly, etc.)
Come into being, become
abs., in lively narrative, arise, appear, come
sq. prep.
become
sq. pred. noun (to be viewed as implicit accus.)
sq. pred. adj.
become like
sq. pred. לְ pers.
sq. לְ pred.
oft. c. לְ pred. לְ pers.
with עַל and לְ
sts. c. לְ pers. only = became the property of, come into the possession of
Be (often with subbordinate idea of becoming)
exist, be in existence
abide, remain, continue
with word of locality, be in or at a place, be situated, stand, lie
as copula, joining subj. & pred.
H1961 הָיָה fall out, come to pass, become, be .. . . Fall out, happen
. occur, take place, come about, come to pass
. esp. & very oft., come about, come to pass . . וַיְהִי and it came to pass that, most often (c. 292 t.)
. rarely also Pf. c. וְ conj. וְהָיָה
. less oft. וְהָיָה Pf. consec. and it shall come to pass, or frequentat. came to pass (repeatedly, etc.)
. Come into being, become . . abs., in lively narrative, arise, appear, come
. sq. prep.
. become . sq. pred. noun (to be viewed as implicit accus.)
. sq. pred. adj.
. become like
. sq. pred. + לְ pers.
. sq. לְ pred.
. oft. c. לְ pred. + לְ pers.
. with עַל and לְ
. sts. c. לְ pers. only = became the property of, come into the possession of
. Be (often with subbordinate idea of becoming) . exist, be in existence
. abide, remain, continue
1961 hayah haw-yaw
a primitive root (compare 1933); to exist, i.e. be or become,
come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or
auxiliary):--beacon, X altogether, be(-come), accomplished,
committed, like), break, cause, come (to pass), do, faint,
fall, + follow, happen, X have, last, pertain, quit
(one-)self, require, X use.
see HEBREW for 01933
הָיָה (ha.yah) — to be.
1) to be, become, come to pass, exist, happen, fall out
1a) (Qal)
1a1) ---
1a1a) to happen, fall out, occur, take place, come about, come to pass
1a1b) to come about, come to pass
1a2) to come into being, become
1a2a) to arise, appear, come
1a2b) to become
1a2b1) to become
1a2b2) to become like
1a2b3) to be instituted, be established
1a3) to be
1a3a) to exist, be in existence
1a3b) to abide, remain, continue (with word of place or time)
1a3c) to stand, lie, be in, be at, be situated (with word of locality)
1a3d) to accompany, be with
1b) (Niphal)
1b1) to occur, come to pass, be done, be brought about
1b2) to be done, be finished, be gone
V-Qal-Imperf-3mp — Verb · Qal · imperfect third person masculine pluralHVqi3mp
