הַלָּז

הַלָּז

this or that

Definition

The Hebrew pronoun הַלָּז (hallâz) is a demonstrative pronoun meaning 'this' or 'that,' used to point out a specific person, object, or location. It often carries a sense of definiteness or particularity, as seen when it identifies 'that rock' in Judges 6:20 or 'this side' in 1 Samuel 14:1. In some contexts, it can imply a degree of distance or distinction, such as when David asks about the fate of 'that Philistine' in 1 Samuel 17:26. The word functions similarly to the more common זֶה (zeh, H2088) but can add a nuanced emphasis on the specific item in view.

Biblical Usage

הַלָּז appears only seven times in the Old Testament, primarily in narrative books like Judges, Samuel, and Kings. It is used to specify a particular object or direction, often in dialogue or descriptive passages. For example, it points to a specific rock (Judges 6:20), a side of a passage (1 Samuel 14:1), a marked grave (2 Kings 23:17), and a location like 'this place' in Zechariah 2:4. Its usage is consistently demonstrative, helping to clarify the subject of discussion within the immediate context.

Etymology

הַלָּז is derived from הַלָּזֶה (hallâzeh, H1976), which is a compound of the definite article הַ (ha-) and the demonstrative pronoun לָזֶה (lâzeh). This construction strengthens the demonstrative force, essentially meaning 'this very one' or 'that particular one.' It shares a root with other demonstratives like זֶה (zeh, H2088, 'this'), but the added elements give it a more pointed and definite quality.

Semantic Range

While primarily a grammatical pointer, הַלָּז can subtly underscore God's attention to specific details in biblical narratives. For instance, in 1 Samuel 17:26, David's question about 'that Philistine' (Goliath) highlights the singular focus of God's deliverance. In Zechariah 2:4, the angel's reference to 'this place' emphasizes the particularity of Jerusalem in God's prophetic plans. Understanding this term helps readers see how Scripture often directs attention to precise elements within God's unfolding story. In ancient Hebrew, demonstrative pronouns like הַלָּז were essential for clear communication in oral and written narratives, where pointing or gestures weren't possible. Its usage reflects a cultural preference for specificity when referring to objects, places, or people, ensuring the audience correctly identified the subject. The term's definite nature aligns with a worldview where particulars matter in recounting historical and prophetic events. זֶה (zeh, H2088) — A more common, general demonstrative meaning 'this.'; הַלָּזֶה (hallâzeh, H1976) — The direct source form, meaning 'this' or 'that,' with a similar emphatic sense.

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