אָז

at that time or place; also as a conjunction, therefore

Definition

The Hebrew word אָז (ʼâz) primarily functions as a temporal adverb meaning 'then,' 'at that time,' or 'in that case.' It often marks a pivotal moment in a narrative, signaling a shift in action or a consequence, as seen when 'then people began to call upon the name of the LORD' (Genesis 4:26). As a conjunction, it can also carry a logical force meaning 'therefore' or 'so,' linking cause and effect, such as in Moses' plea, 'then I pray, send someone else' (Exodus 4:13). Its usage spans from simple chronological sequencing to emphasizing the decisive outcomes of divine or human actions.

Biblical Usage

אָז is used frequently throughout the Old Testament, especially in narrative and poetic books like Genesis, Exodus, Psalms, and Isaiah. It commonly introduces the next event in a sequence (Genesis 12:6, 24:41) or highlights a consequential response (Genesis 39:5). In poetry, it often structures parallel lines, as in the Psalms, to contrast times of trouble with times of deliverance (e.g., Psalm 126:2). Its pattern shows a strong link between a preceding condition and a subsequent result, making it a key marker of narrative and logical flow.

Etymology

אָז is derived from a demonstrative root, related to the idea of 'that' or 'there.' It is cognate with other Semitic words for 'then' or 'at that time,' such as Ugaritic ʾid and Arabic ʾidhan. Its function as an adverb of time is primary, with the conjunctive sense ('therefore') developing from its use to mark what follows a given circumstance.

Semantic Range

אָז is theologically significant as it often marks key moments in salvation history and divine-human interaction. It punctuates narratives of covenant initiation (Genesis 12:6), judgment, and deliverance, emphasizing God's timely intervention. Understanding its dual function—temporal and logical—enriches reading by highlighting how biblical events are not merely sequential but are causally connected under God's providence, showing that specific times are ordained for His purposes.

In ancient Hebrew thought, time was often perceived in terms of significant events rather than abstract chronology. אָז reflects this, pointing to 'that' definitive moment or situation. Its usage to mean 'therefore' also aligns with a worldview where actions and consequences were seen as directly linked, often under divine oversight, differing from modern notions of chance or impersonal cause and effect.

עַתָּה (ʿattâ, H6258) — emphasizes 'now,' the immediate present, whereas אָז points to 'then,' a specific past or future time. כִּי (kî, H3588) — a broader conjunction often meaning 'because' or 'that,' used for causal links, while אָז as 'therefore' focuses more on temporal or resultant sequence. אָז (in its temporal sense) is also related to בַּיּוֹם הַהוּא (bayyôm hahû’, H3117) — 'in that day,' a prophetic phrase for a specific future time.

Word Details

Scripture References