עִתִּי

עִתִּי

timely

Definition

The Hebrew word עִתִּי (ʻittîy) is an adjective meaning 'timely,' 'opportune,' or 'fitting for a specific occasion.' It describes something that is appropriate or suitable for a particular, appointed time. Its sole biblical occurrence is in Leviticus 16:21, where it modifies the goat for Azazel, describing it as being 'fit' or 'designated' for its specific ritual role on the Day of Atonement. The word emphasizes a sense of divine appointment and suitability rather than a general quality of goodness.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the entire Old Testament, in Leviticus 16:21. It appears in the highly specific, priestly context of the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) rituals. The word is used to describe the live goat that is chosen by lot 'for Azazel.' Its usage underscores that this goat is not randomly selected but is precisely and appropriately designated for its solemn, cultic purpose at that appointed time.

Etymology

The word עִתִּי (ʻittîy) is directly derived from the common noun עֵת (ʻēth, H6256), meaning 'time,' 'season,' or 'appointed time.' It is formed by adding the adjectival suffix -ִי (-î), which denotes relation or belonging. Thus, its core meaning is 'belonging to a (specific) time' or 'of the time,' which developed into 'timely' or 'fit for the occasion.'

Semantic Range

Though used only once, this word carries significant theological weight in its context. It highlights the precision and intentionality of God's instructions for atonement. The goat is not merely 'a' goat but the 'timely' or 'fit' goat, appointed by God for a specific redemptive function. This reinforces the biblical theme of God's sovereignty in appointing times and means for dealing with sin, pointing ultimately to Christ as the perfectly appointed sacrifice (Galatians 4:4). Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the reading of Leviticus 16 by emphasizing that every detail of the atonement ritual was divinely ordained and purposeful. In its ancient Israelite context, the term is embedded in the complex sacrificial system. The concept of something being 'timely' or 'fit' for a ritual would have conveyed a strong sense of ritual purity, correctness, and divine selection. It distinguished an object or animal as meeting all the specific requirements to be effective within the sacred ceremony, separating it from ordinary or profane use. טוֹב (ṭôḇ, H2896) — A general term for 'good' or 'pleasant,' lacking the specific connotation of being appointed for a particular time or purpose. יָשָׁר (yāšār, H3477) — Means 'upright' or 'straight,' often in a moral sense, not specifically 'timely' or 'ritually fit.'

Word Details