עַתָּה

at this time, whether adverb, conjunction or expletive

Definition

The Hebrew word עַתָּה (ʻattâh) is a versatile term primarily meaning 'now' or 'at this time.' It often marks a decisive moment in a narrative, signaling a shift in action or a new development, as when God says, 'Behold, the man has become like one of us' in Genesis 3:22. It can function as a simple temporal adverb ('now'), a logical conjunction ('therefore, now'), or an emphatic particle to strengthen a command or plea, such as in Abraham's intercession, 'Oh let not the Lord be angry, and I will speak' (Genesis 18:32). In some contexts, it carries a consequential force, meaning 'so then' or 'in that case,' linking a previous statement to a following action or conclusion.

Biblical Usage

עַתָּה appears over 400 times across all genres of the Old Testament, from narrative to poetry and prophecy. In historical books like Genesis, it frequently punctuates divine speeches and critical dialogues, marking turning points (e.g., Genesis 4:11, 22:12). In the Psalms and prophets, it often introduces urgent pleas or announcements of imminent judgment or salvation, emphasizing the present moment of decision (e.g., Psalm 2:10, Isaiah 1:18). Its usage is consistent in conveying immediacy, whether describing a current situation, drawing a logical inference, or adding emphasis to a request.

Etymology

Derived from the root עֵת (ʻēth, H6256), meaning 'time' or 'season.' עַתָּה is essentially the adverbial form, pinpointing a specific point in time—'this time' or 'the time that is now.' This connection to עֵת grounds it in the concrete reality of a particular moment, whether in chronological sequence or in logical argument.

Semantic Range

עַתָּה is theologically significant as it often highlights God's intervention in human history at specific, kairotic moments. It underscores the biblical theme of God acting in the 'now'—whether in judgment, mercy, or the fulfillment of promise. Understanding its force enriches reading by clarifying when a narrative or prophecy is reaching a climax, emphasizing human responsibility in the present moment (as in God's call to 'choose this day,' cf. Joshua 24:15), and revealing the urgency behind divine commands and prophetic appeals.

In ancient Hebrew thought, time was often perceived in terms of concrete events and opportunities rather than abstract chronology. עַתָּה, rooted in this worldview, typically points to a decisive, opportune, or crisis moment demanding a response. This contrasts with a modern, purely clock-time understanding of 'now,' as it often carries a weight of consequence and immediacy tied to God's active involvement.

כִּי (kî, H3588) — a broader conjunction often meaning 'for, because, that'; while it can sometimes overlap with the logical sense of עַתָּה, it is more causal. הִנֵּה (hinnēh, H2009) — an interjection meaning 'behold, look'; draws attention to something present or imminent, sharing עַתָּה's immediacy but focusing on visual or dramatic presentation rather than time.

Word Details

Scripture References