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Daniel 9:3 — Word Study

Depth

WLCוָאֶתְּנָ֣ה אֶת־ פָּנַ֗י אֶל־ אֲדֹנָי֙ הָֽאֱלֹהִ֔ים לְבַקֵּ֥שׁ תְּפִלָּ֖ה וְתַחֲנוּנִ֑ים בְּצ֖וֹם וְשַׂ֥ק וָאֵֽפֶר׃

BSASo I turned my attentionnâthan [set my face, directed my thoughts] toʼêl the LordʼĂdônây Godʼĕlôhîym [Adonay, the reverenced God] to seek Himbâqash [search for, inquire of] by prayertᵉphillâh [supplication, heartfelt request] and petitiontachănûwn [earnest plea] with fastingtsôwm [abstaining from food, humbling myself] sackclothsaq [coarse cloth] and ashesʼêpher

Word
Listen & take awayDaniel 9
English ↓ Download MP3 The Berean Standard Bible chapter audio already hosted for the site's Bible section — verse 3 is in this chapter.
Hebrew ↓ Download MP3 The Masoretic text of this chapter, read aloud. Read by Abraham Shmuelof, courtesy of Audio Scriptures International. Chapter divisions by the Academy of Ancient Languages..
Say the word Each Hebrew word carries its transliteration (va.'E.fer) — no per-word recordings of the Hebrew exist to link to.
Take it away
Daniel 9:3quick helps
In a sentenceDaniel turns his focus to God, seeking Him through prayer and fasting.
Who is speakingDaniel, addressing the Lord God with earnestness.
Where we areA moment of deep supplication in the midst of a prophetic revelation.
The hard wordוָאֶתְּנָ֣ה
Take awayDaniel actively seeks God with humility and sincerity.
8 commentators on this verse Gill, Jamieson, Poole, Trapp & more — read them › clause The sentence as the grammar sees it Open the tree ›
How rare are these words?in the Old Testament

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 — Daniel 9:3

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 — Daniel's Prayer for His Peoplegenerated

2in the first year of his reign, I, Daniel, understood from the sacred books, according to the word of the LORD to Jeremiah the prophet, that the desolation of Jerusalem would last seventy years.
3So I turned my attention to the Lord God to seek Him by prayer and petition, with fasting, sackcloth, and ashes.
4And I prayed to the LORD my God and confessed, “O, Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps His covenant of loving devotion to those who love Him and keep His commandments,
5we have sinned and done wrong. We have acted wickedly and rebelled. We have turned away from Your commandments and ordinances.

Daniel 9:3 describes Daniel's earnest response to the revelation of the seventy years of desolation for Jerusalem. In this context, he turns to the Lord God, seeking to understand and intercede for his people through prayer, fasting, and expressions of humility. This reflects a common theme in the Scriptures where prayer serves as a means of seeking God's favor and guidance, as seen in other passages like Nehemiah 1:4-11 and Psalm 102:13-17.


Cross References

ReferenceText (BSB)
1Daniel 6:10Now when Daniel learned that the document had been signed, he went into his house, where the windows of his upper room opened toward Jerusalem, and three times a day he got down on his knees, prayed, and gave thanks to his God, just as he had done before.
2Nehemiah 1:4–11When I heard these words, I sat down and wept. I mourned for days, fasting and praying before the God of heaven.
3Psalm 102:13–17You will rise up and have compassion on Zion, for it is time to show her favor— the appointed time has come.
4Jeremiah 29:10–13For this is what the LORD says: “When Babylon’s seventy years are complete, I will attend to you and confirm My promise to restore you to this place.
5Jeremiah 33:3Call to Me, and I will answer and show you great and unsearchable things you do not know.

The Key Word וָאֶתְּנָ֣ה, va.'e.te.Nahgenerated

The verb וָאֶתְּנָה (va.'e.te.Nah) is a first person singular form of the verb נָתַן (natan), which means 'to give' or 'to set'. In this verse, it conveys the action of Daniel directing his focus towards God, indicating an intentional and purposeful act of devotion.

The use of this verb highlights Daniel's active role in seeking God. It signifies not just a physical turning but a mental and spiritual commitment to engage with the divine through prayer and supplication.


How Translations Differ — measured against the Berean Standard Biblegenerated

In the Berean Standard Bible, the phrase is rendered as So I turned my attention, which aligns with the intent of the original Hebrew.


Sentence Structuregenerated

The main verb in the sentence is וָאֶתְּנָה, and I set, which governs the entire structure. It is followed by a series of noun phrases and prepositional phrases that elaborate on what Daniel is setting his attention towards.

The sentence structure is complex, with multiple phrases detailing the means by which Daniel seeks God, including prayer, supplication, fasting, and expressions of humility. This layered construction reflects the depth of Daniel's commitment.


Septuagint Backgroundgenerated

The Septuagint translates וָאֶתְּנָה as ἔδωκα (edōka), meaning 'I gave'. This choice suggests a slightly different nuance, focusing on the act of giving attention or devotion, which aligns with the overall theme of seeking God.

This translation indicates a broader interpretation of Daniel's action, emphasizing not just the physical turning but also the offering of oneself in prayer and supplication.


In plain words — the whole versegenerated

Daniel 9:3 shows Daniel turning his attention to God, seeking Him through prayer and earnest supplication. He does this with fasting, sackcloth, and ashes, which are signs of humility and repentance, indicating the seriousness of his plea.


Frequently Asked Questionsgenerated

What does it mean that Daniel turned his attention to God?

It signifies Daniel's intentional focus on God, seeking His guidance and mercy through prayer and supplication.

Why does Daniel include fasting, sackcloth, and ashes in his prayer?

These actions symbolize humility and repentance, showing Daniel's earnestness in seeking God's favor and mercy.

How does this verse connect to other passages in the Bible?

Similar themes of seeking God through prayer and fasting can be found in other scriptures, such as Nehemiah 1:4-11 and Psalm 102:13-17, highlighting a consistent practice among the faithful.

What can we learn from Daniel's example?

Daniel's example teaches us the importance of turning to God in prayer with sincerity, humility, and a desire for His guidance and mercy.


Reflection Questionsgenerated

  1. In what areas of my life do I need to turn my attention to God like Daniel did?
  2. How can I incorporate fasting and humility into my own prayer life?
  3. What does it mean to seek God earnestly in my daily life?
  4. How can I encourage others to seek God through prayer and supplication?

The early church on this verse — how the Fathers read it

The early church Fathers referenced Daniel's prayer as a model of earnest supplication and humility before God.

TertullianON FASTING 7 c. 155–220
Nor is it merely a change of nature, or aversion of perils or obliteration of sins but likewise the recognition of mysteries that fasts will merit from God.
Early Church Fathers on Daniel 9 →
John ChrysostomCOMMENTARY ON Daniel 9 c. 347–407
What will you say, Daniel? You are among the good; you enjoy honor before God and people; why do you concern yourself with the others? But Moses also acted the same way.
Early Church Fathers on Daniel 9 →

Commentators on this verse — 8 expositors, verse by verse

Each of these wrote on Daniel 9:3 itself, not merely on the chapter around it.

John Gill1697–1771Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

And I set my face unto the Lord God, to seek by prayer and supplications,.... He set apart some time on purpose for this service, distinct from his usual stated times of prayer, as well as from his

Read John Gill on Daniel 9 →
Robert Jamieson1802–1880Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown's Commentary

And I set my face unto the Lord God, to seek by prayer and supplications, with fasting, and sackcloth, and ashes: I set my face unto the Lord God, to seek by prayer and supplications - literally,

Read Robert Jamieson on Daniel 9 →
Matthew Poole1624–1679Matthew Poole's Commentary on the Holy Bible

Observe two things: 1. That deep revolting, and deep afflictions, call for deep and solemn humiliation. 2. God’ s decrees and promises do not excuse us from duty and prayer, but include it and require it. God will be inquired of for those things which he hath purposed and promised to give his people, . And if it be objected by any, (as it is by Calovius,) that both God’ s threats and promises are absolute, and not hypothetical, as they will prove by ,12 29:10; it is answered that, 1. Though it be spoken peremptorily and absolutely, yet not without a tacit condition and secret reserve in God, . 2. God often speaks positively to put sinners in the more awe of his judgments, and to drive them…

Read Matthew Poole on Daniel 9 →
John Trapp1601–1669Trapp's Complete Commentary on the Old and New Testaments

Daniel 9:3 And I set my face unto the Lord God, to seek by prayer and supplications, with fasting, and sackcloth, and ashes:Ver. 3. And I set my face unto the Lord God,] i.e., Toward the habitation of his holiness at Jerusalem, but especially in heaven. I looked up unto the hills from whence I looked for help. This Daniel did daily, but now with more than ordinary intention and devotion he presenteth δεησιςενεργουμενη, an inwrought prayer (as St James calleth it, James 5:16), edged with fasting and downright humiliation. He doubteth not thereby to set God to work, as David did He knew that a long look toward God speedeth, how much more an extraordinary prayer!

Read John Trapp on Daniel 9 →
Charles John Ellicott1819–1905Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers

(3) I set my face.—Comp. Daniel 6:11. Probably he prayed, as on that occasion, with his face towards Jerusalem. The prayer of Daniel bears some resemblance to those offered by Ezra and Nehemiah, while that of Baruch resembles it much more closely. (On this see Excursus F.)

Read Charles John Ellicott on Daniel 9 →
AdamClarkeAdam Clarke's Commentary on the Bible

Verse 3. I set my face - to seek by prayer] He found that the time of the promised deliverance could not be at any great distance; and as he saw nothing that indicated a speedy termination of their oppressive captivity, he was very much afflicted, and earnestly besought God to put a speedy end to it; and how earnestly he seeks, his own words show. He prayed, he supplicated, he fasted, he put sackcloth upon his body, and he put ashes upon his head. He uses that kind of prayer prescribed by Solomon in his prayer at the dedication of the temple. See 1Kg 8:47-48.

Read AdamClarke on Daniel 9 →
CambridgeThe Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges

3–19. Daniel’s prayer, consisting (1) of a confession of national transgression, and of the justice of God’s punishment (Daniel 9:4-14), and (2) of a supplication for mercy and restoration (Daniel 9:15-19). The prayer evinces great depth and fervour of religious feeling. In style it is Deuteronomic; in fact, it is composed largely of reminiscences of Deut., the prayer of Solomon in 1 Kings 8, and (especially) of Jeremiah (in particular, of Jeremiah 26, 32, 44): there are also some noticeable parallels with the prayers in Nehemiah 1, 9, and Ezra 9 (see on Daniel 9:4; Daniel 9:6-7; Daniel 9:9; Daniel 9:14-15; Daniel 9:18). The most striking resemblances are, however, with parts of the…

Read Cambridge on Daniel 9 →
Albert Barnes1798–1870Barnes' Notes on the Bible

And I set my face unto the Lord God - Probably the meaning is, that he turned his face toward Jerusalem, the place where God had dwelt; the place of his holy abode on earth. See the notes at Daniel 6:10.

Read Albert Barnes on Daniel 9 →

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

BSBBerean Standard Bible2020

So I turned my attention to the Lord God to seek Him by prayer and petition, with fasting, sackcloth, and ashes.

WEBWorld English Bible2000

I set my face to the Lord God, to seek by prayer and petitions, with fasting and sackcloth and ashes.

MSBMajority Standard Bible2022

So I turned my attention to the Lord God to seek Him by prayer and petition, with fasting, sackcloth, and ashes.

NETBNew English Translation2006

So I turned my attention to the Lord God to implore him by prayer and requests, with fasting, sackcloth, and ashes.

Tyndale line

KJVKing James Version1611

¶ And I set my face unto the Lord God, to seek by prayer and supplications, with fasting, and sackcloth, and ashes:

ASVAmerican Standard Version1901

And I set my face unto the Lord God, to seek by prayer and supplications, with fasting and sackcloth and ashes.

RVARevised Version, American1894

And I set my face unto the Lord God, to seek by prayer and supplications, with fasting, and sackcloth, and ashes.

NWBWebster's Bible1833

And I set my face to the Lord GOD, to seek by prayer and supplications, with fasting, and sackcloth, and ashes:

GNVGeneva Bible1599

And I turned my face vnto the Lord God, and sought by prayer and supplications with fasting and sackcloth and ashes.

Strictly literal

DBYDarby Translation1890

And I set my face unto the Lord God, to seek by prayer and supplications, with fasting, and sackcloth, and ashes;

YLTYoung's Literal Translation1862

and I set my face unto the Lord God, to seek [by] prayer and supplications, with fasting, and sackcloth, and ashes.

LSVLiteral Standard Version2020

and I set my face toward the Lord God, to seek [by] prayer and supplications, with fasting, and sackcloth, and ashes.

ILTInterlinear Literal Translation2000

And I directed my face unto the Lord God, to ask by prayer and supplications, with fasting, and in sackcloth, and ashes.

ULBUnlocked Literal Bible2017

I turned my face to the Lord God, to seek him with prayer and requests, with fasting, wearing sackcloth, and sitting in ashes.

From the Latin

DRADouay-Rheims (Challoner)1899

And I set my face to the Lord my God, to pray and make supplication with fasting, and sackcloth, and ashes.

Simplified

FBVFree Bible Version2020

So I turned to the Lord God in prayer. I fasted and wore sackcloth and ashes, and I pleaded with him in prayer to act.

BBEBible in Basic English1949

And turning my face to the Lord God, I gave myself up to prayer, requesting his grace, going without food, in haircloth and dust.

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.

וָandclauseverb phrase · verbאֶתְּנָ֣Iהsetnoun phrase · objectאֶת(et)noun phraseפָּנַ֗faceיmyprepositional phrase · prepositionalאֶלtonoun phrasenoun phraseאֲדֹנָLordי֙[the]noun phraseהָֽ(the)אֱלֹהִ֔יםGodprepositional phrase · prepositionalלְtoclauseverbבַקֵּ֥שׁseeknoun phrase · adverbialתְּפִלָּ֖הprayerוְandתַחֲנוּנִ֑יםsupplicationsprepositional phrase · prepositionalבְּwithnoun phraseצ֖וֹםfastingוְandשַׂ֥קsackclothוָandאֵֽפֶרash[es]

Boxes are the grammarian's groupings — clause, noun phrase, prepositional phrase.


The four witnesses to this verse — Masoretic, Septuagint, Samaritan, Qumran

The Masoretic Text and the Septuagint largely agree in content, with ten of the twelve words matching. The Septuagint's word order and articles differ, reflecting its own stylistic choices while preserving the core message of Daniel's prayer.

Masoretic TextLeningrad Codex, c. AD 1008 — the text this page is built on

וָאֶתְּנָ֣ה אֶת־ פָּנַ֗י אֶל־ אֲדֹנָי֙ הָֽאֱלֹהִ֔ים לְבַקֵּ֥שׁ תְּפִלָּ֖ה וְתַחֲנוּנִ֑ים בְּצ֖וֹם וְשַׂ֥ק וָאֵֽפֶר׃

Septuagintthe Greek the translators chose, word by word
וָאֶתְּנָ֣הἔδωκαפָּנַ֗יμουאֶל־ἐπὶהָֽאֱלֹהִ֔יםτὸνלְבַקֵּ֥שׁθεὸνתְּפִלָּ֖הεὑρεῖνוְתַחֲנוּנִ֑יםκαὶבְּצ֖וֹםἐνוְשַׂ֥קκαὶוָאֵֽפֶר׃καὶ

10 of the 12 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.

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.

Daniel 9:3נָתַןand I set !and I set !נָתַןאֵתthe object the object markאֵתפָּנֶהface myface myפָּנֶהאֶלtotoאֶלאָדוֹן[the] Lord[the] LordאָדוֹןאֱלֹהִיםGodGodאֱלֹהִיםבָּקַשׁto seekto seekבָּקַשׁתְּפִלָּהprayerprayerתְּפִלָּהתַּחֲנוּןand supplicand supplicatioתַּחֲנוּןצוֹםwith fastinwith fastingצוֹםשַׂקand sackcloand sackclothשַׂקאֵ֫פֶרand ash[es]and ash[es]אֵ֫פֶראוֹתsign: mirasign: miraculouאוֹתפָּנָהCorner (GaCorner (Gate)פָּנָהחָנַןbe gracioube graciousחָנַןצוּםto fastto fastצוּםשָׁקַקto rushto rushשָׁקַקאָדוֹןlordlordאָדוֹןאֱלֹהַּgodgodאֱלֹהַּפָּלַלto prayto prayפָּלַלנַחֲלָהinheritancinheritanceנַחֲלָהזֶ֫רַעseedseedזֶ֫רַעמִגְרָשׁpasturepastureמִגְרָשׁסָתַרto hideto hideסָתַרנוּסto fleeto fleeנוּסיִרְמְיָ֫הJeremiahJeremiahיִרְמְיָ֫היהוהYHWH/GodYHWH/Godיהוהכֹּהthusthusכֹּהאַחֵרanotheranotherאַחֵראֲרוֹןarkarkאֲרוֹן
meets it a little oftener than chancemeets it far oftener than chancebuilt from the same roottwo words of the verse share ita word of this versea related word

Lexicons — every word in Daniel 9:3

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.

and I set ! the object marker face my to [the] Lord God to seek prayer and supplications with fasting and sackcloth and ash[es]
וָאֶתְּנָ֣הva.'e.te.Nah and I set ! H5414 Verb qal sequential imperfect first person common singular · suffix
2,011× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
This word means to give, put, or set something, with a wide range of applications. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, describing God's actions and human interactions. The word is used to convey giving, selling, or exchanging something.
Amplified meaning
set my face, directed my thoughts
Tyndale gloss
to give: give
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

The Hebrew word נָתַן (natan) means 'to give' and encompasses a wide range of applications such as putting, setting, and making. It can also indicate actions like bestowing, delivering, and assigning. The entries describe its use in various forms, including Qal, Niphal, and Hophal, but do not present any significant disagreements among lexicons.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

נָתַן 2007 vb. give, put, set

Qal 1917

give

Put, set

Make, constitute

Niph.

82be given

Be put, set

Hoph.

be given, bestowed

= be given to one for wife

be put upon

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H5414 נָתַן give, put, set .. give

. Put, set

. Make, constitute

. . be given

. Be put, set

. . . be given, bestowed

. = be given to one for wife

. be put upon

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

5414 nathan naw-than'

a primitive root; to give, used with greatest latitude of

application (put, make, etc.):--add, apply, appoint, ascribe,

assign, X avenge, X be ((healed)), bestow, bring (forth,

hither), cast, cause, charge, come, commit, consider, count, +

cry, deliver (up), direct, distribute, do, X doubtless, X

without fail, fasten, frame, X get, give (forth, over, up),

grant, hang (up), X have, X indeed, lay (unto charge, up),

(give) leave, lend, let (out), + lie, lift up, make, + O that,

occupy, offer, ordain, pay, perform, place, pour, print, X

pull , put (forth), recompense, render, requite, restore, send

(out), set (forth), shew, shoot forth (up), + sing, + slander,

strike, (sub-)mit, suffer, X surely, X take, thrust, trade,

turn, utter, + weep, + willingly, + withdraw, + would (to)

God, yield.

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

נָתַן (na.tan) — to give: give.

: give/deliver/send/produce

1) to give, put, set

1a) (Qal)

1a1) to give, bestow, grant, permit, ascribe, employ, devote, consecrate, dedicate, pay wages, sell, exchange, lend, commit, entrust, give over, deliver up, yield produce, occasion, produce, requite to, report, mention, utter, stretch out, extend

1a2) to put, set, put on, put upon, set, appoint, assign, designate

1a3) to make, constitute

1b) (Niphal)

1b1) to be given, be bestowed, be provided, be entrusted to, be granted to, be permitted, be issued, be published, be uttered, be assigned

1b2) to be set, be put, be made, be inflicted

1c) (Hophal)

1c1) to be given, be bestowed, be given up, be delivered up

1c2) to be put upon

נָתַן (na.tan) — to give: put.

: put/set/apppoint

1) to give, put, set

1a) (Qal)

Read the full entry →
Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-1cs | Suff — Verb qal sequential imperfect first person common singular · suffix
Hc/Vqw1cs/Sh
Bible dictionarieson the English sense
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia

Few words in the English language have such a rich variety of meaning and are used in so rich a variety of idiomatic expression as the word "set." A glance at any of the great dictionaries will convince anyone of the truth of this statement. The Standard Dictionary devotes three and a half columns to the word. In its primary meaning it there denotes 22 distinct things, in its secondary meaning 17 more, while 18 distinct phrases are given in which it is used, in some cases again in a variety of meanings. It is indeed a word calculated to drive a foreigner to despair. Some 70 Hebrew and about 30 Greek words in the original tongues of the Holy Scriptures have been rendered by the word "set," in the King James Version and also in the Revised Version (British and American). A careful comparative study of the original and of translations in other tongues will at once indicate that a lack of…

The company it keepswords that stand beside it more often than chance
and I set ! the object marker face my to [the] Lord God to seek prayer and supplications with fasting and sackcloth and ash[es]
אֶת־'et- the object marker H853 Particle
10,946× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Tyndale gloss
[Obj.]
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

אֵת (eth) is primarily a grammatical marker in Hebrew, indicating the definite direct object of a verb. It is not translated into English and typically precedes nouns that are definite. The word is derived from a demonstrative sense of entity, related to the Hebrew word for 'self.' Its Aramaic equivalent is יָת (yat).

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

אֵת the mark of the accusative, prefixed as a rule only to nouns that are definite

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H853 אֵת the mark of the accusative, prefixed as a rule only to nouns that are definite

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

853 'eth ayth

apparent contracted from 226 in the demonstrative sense of

entity; properly, self (but generally used to point out more

definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or

namely):--(as such unrepresented in English).

see HEBREW for 0226

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

אֵת (et) — [Obj.].

sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative

Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
HTo — Particle
HTo
The company it keepswords that stand beside it more often than chance
and I set ! the object marker face my to [the] Lord God to seek prayer and supplications with fasting and sackcloth and ash[es]
פָּנַ֗יpa.Nai face my H6440 Noun common masculine plural construct · suffix
2,127× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
This word means face or presence, like being in front of someone or something. It's used in many contexts, like in Genesis, Exodus, and Psalms, to describe interactions and relationships.
Tyndale gloss
face
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

The Hebrew word פָּנֶה (*pāneh*) is a noun meaning 'face' or 'presence,' and it appears in various contexts, including the faces of seraphim and animals, as well as the surface of the ground. It can also function as an adverb meaning 'before' or 'in front of.' The word is built from a root that suggests turning or facing, and it encompasses a wide range of applications, both literal and figurative.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

[פָּנֶה], pl. פָּנִים 2123 n.m. face, also faces

face, faces

presence, person

technically, see one's face, i.e. appear before one, in one's presence

face of seraphim

face of animals

face (= surface) of ground

as adv.loc. before

for other phrases

with prepositions

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H6440 פָּנֶה, pl. פָּנִים face, also faces . . face, faces

. . presence, person

. technically, see one's face, i.e. appear before one, in one's presence

. face of seraphim

. face of animals

. face (= surface) of ground

. as adv. loc. before

. for other phrases

. with prepositions

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

6440 paniym paw-neem'

plural (but always as singular) of an unused noun (paneh

{paw-neh'}; from 6437); the face (as the part that turns);

used in a great variety of applications (literally and

figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a

preposition (before, etc.):--+ accept, a-(be- )fore(-time),

against, anger, X as (long as), at, + battle, + because (of),

+ beseech, countenance, edge, + employ, endure, + enquire,

face, favour, fear of, for, forefront(-part), form(-er

time, -ward), from, front, heaviness, X him(-self), +

honourable, + impudent, + in, it, look(-eth) (- s), X me, +

meet, X more than, mouth, of, off, (of) old (time), X on,

open, + out of, over against, the partial, person, + please,

presence, propect, was purposed, by reason of, + regard, right

forth, + serve, X shewbread, sight, state, straight, + street,

X thee, X them(-selves), through (+ - out), till, time(-s)

Read the full entry →
Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

פָּנֶה (pa.neh) — face: before.

: before/to/front

1) face

1a) face, faces

1b) presence, person

1c) face (of seraphim or cherubim)

1d) face (of animals)

1e) face, surface (of ground)

1f) as adv of loc/temp

1f1) before and behind, toward, in front of, forward, formerly, from beforetime, before

1g) with prep

1g1) in front of, before, to the front of, in the presence of, in the face of, at the face or front of, from the presence of, from before, from before the face of

פָּנֶה (pa.neh) — face.

: face

1) face

1a) face, faces

1b) presence, person

1c) face (of seraphim or cherubim)

1d) face (of animals)

1e) face, surface (of ground)

1f) as adv of loc/temp

1f1) before and behind, toward, in front of, forward, formerly, from beforetime, before

1g) with prep

1g1) in front of, before, to the front of, in the presence of, in the face of, at the face or front of, from the presence of, from before, from…

Read the full entry →
Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
HNcmpc/Sp1bs — Noun common masculine plural construct · suffix
HNcmpc/Sp1bs
The company it keepswords that stand beside it more often than chance
and I set ! the object marker face my to [the] Lord God to seek prayer and supplications with fasting and sackcloth and ash[es]
אֶל־'el- to H413 Preposition
5,518× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.
Tyndale gloss
to(wards)
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

The Hebrew word אֶל (el) is primarily a preposition indicating motion towards or direction to a person or place. It can also imply entering a limit, presence at a location, or a hostile direction (against). Additionally, it may express concepts such as concerning, in addition to, or according to. The entries highlight its versatility in both physical and metaphorical contexts.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

אֶל (nearly always followed by Makkeph),

prep. denoting motion to or direction towards (whether physical or mental).of motion to or unto a person or place

Where the limit is actually entered, into

Of direction towards anything

Where the motion or direction implied appears from the context to be of a hostile character, אֶל = against

Unto sometimes acquires from the context the sense of in addition to

Metaph. in regard to, concerning, on account of

Of rule or standard according to (rare)

Expressing presence at a spot, against, at, by, not merely after verbs implying motion

Prefixed to other preps. it combines with them the idea of motion or direction to

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H413 אֶל (nearly always followed by Makkeph), . of motion to or unto a person or place

. Where the limit is actually entered, into

. Of direction towards anything

. Where the motion or direction implied appears from the context to be of a hostile character, אֶל = against

. Unto sometimes acquires from the context the sense of in addition to

. Metaph. in regard to, concerning, on account of

. Of rule or standard according to (rare)

. Expressing presence at a spot, against, at, by, not merely after verbs implying motion

. Prefixed to other preps. it combines with them the idea of motion or direction to

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

413 'el ale

(but only used in the shortened constructive form sel {el});

a primitive particle; properly, denoting motion towards, but

occasionally used of a quiescent position, i.e. near, with or

among; often in general, to:--about, according to ,after,

against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and,

by, concerning, for, from, X hath, in(- to), near, (out) of,

over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether,

with(-in).

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

אֶל (el) — to(wards).

1) to, toward, unto (of motion)

2) into (limit is actually entered)

2a) in among

3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion)

4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character)

5) in addition to, to

6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of

7) according to (rule or standard)

8) at, by, against (of one's presence)

9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Prep — Preposition
HR
and I set ! the object marker face my to [the] Lord God to seek prayer and supplications with fasting and sackcloth and ash[es]
אֲדֹנָי֙'a.do.Nai [the] Lord H136 Noun proper
440× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
Adonay is a title used to refer to God, spoken in place of Yahweh as a sign of reverence and respect. It is used throughout the Bible to address God or refer to Him in a formal way. Adonay is a term of worship and devotion.
Tyndale gloss
Lord
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

אֲדֹנָי (Adonay) means 'Lord' and is an emphatic form of another Hebrew word for lord. It is used specifically as a title for God, often in place of Yahweh to show reverence. Variations include אֲדֹנִי and אֲדֹנַי, which help distinguish divine from human references.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

אָדוֹן n.m. lord (אֲדֹנִי, אֲדֹנַי, אֲדֹנָי are variations of Mass. pointing to distinguish divine reference fr. human. Pl., with few exc. an intens. pl. of rank; word takes sf. as pl. in all other pers.; so doubtless here. Orig. reading prob. in all cases אֲדֹנַי; אֲדֹנִי now found in J 51 t.)

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H136 אָדוֹן lord (אֲדֹנִי, אֲדֹנַי, אֲדֹנָי are variations of Mass. pointing to distinguish divine reference fr. human. Pl., with few exc. an intens. pl. of rank; word takes sf. as pl. in all other pers.; so doubtless here. Orig. reading prob. in all cases אֲדֹנַי; אֲדֹנִי now found in J 51 t.)

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

136 'Adonay ad-o-noy'

am emphatic form of 113; the Lord (used as a proper name of

God only):--(my) Lord.

see HEBREW for 0113

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

אֲדֹנָי (a.do.nai) — Lord.

Lord - a title, spoken in place of Yahweh in Jewish display of reverence

Another name of ye.ho.vah (יהוה "LORD" H3068G)

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
N-mp | Suff — Noun proper
HNpt
Bible dictionarieson the English sense
Easton's Bible Dictionary

Lord

There are various Hebrew and Greek words so rendered.

(1.) Heb. Jehovah, has been rendered in the English Bible LORD, printed in small capitals. This is the proper name of the God of the Hebrews. The form “Jehovah” is retained only in Ex. 6:3; Ps. 83:18; Isa. 12:2; 26:4, both in the Authorized and the Revised Version.

(2.) Heb. ‘adon, means one possessed of absolute control. It denotes a master, as of slaves (Gen. 24:14, 27), or a ruler of his subjects (45:8), or a husband, as lord of his wife (18:12).

The old plural form of this Hebrew word is ’adonai. From a superstitious reverence for the name “Jehovah,” the Jews, in reading their Scriptures, whenever that name…

Smith's Bible Dictionary

[GOD]

American Tract Society Bible Dictionary

This name belongs to God by preeminence; and in this sense ought never to be given to any creature. Jesus Christ, as the Messiah, the Son of God, and equal with the Father, is often called Lord in Scripture, especially in the writing of Paul. The word LORD, in the English Bible, when printed in small capitals, stands always for JEHOVAH in the Hebrew. See JEHOVAH.

Nave's Topical Bible

→ A prince Jos 13:3; Jud 3:3; 1Sa 5:8; 6:4

→ See GOD

→ See JESUS

and I set ! the object marker face my to [the] Lord God to seek prayer and supplications with fasting and sackcloth and ash[es]
הָֽאֱלֹהִ֔יםha.'E.lo.Him God H430 Particle · noun common masculine plural absolute
2,603× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
The Hebrew word for God, elohim, refers to the one supreme God, and is sometimes used to show respect to judges or magistrates. It is also used to describe angels or mighty beings. This word is closely related to the name of the Lord, Yahweh, and is often translated as God or gods in the Bible.
Amplified meaning
Adonay, the reverenced God
Tyndale gloss
God
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

אֱלֹהִים (elohiym) is a plural noun meaning 'gods' or 'God,' often referring to the supreme deity in the Old Testament. It encompasses divine beings, rulers, and judges, reflecting divine majesty and power. The term can also denote angels and is used in a superlative sense. Notably, it is sometimes combined with יהוה (YHWH), the personal name of God.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

אֱלֹהִים 2570 n.m.pl.

pl. in number.

rulers, judges, either as divine representatives at sacred places or as reflecting divine majesty and power

divine ones, superhuman beings including God and angels

angels

gods

pl. intensive

god or goddess

godlike one

works of God, or things belongng to him

God

הָאֱלֹהִים the (true) God

אֱלֹהִים = God

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H430 אֱלֹהִים n. m. pl. . pl. in number. . rulers, judges, either asdivine representatives at sacred places or as reflecting divine majesty and power

. divine ones, superhuman beings including God and angels

. angels

. gods

. pl. intensive . god or goddess

. godlike one

. works of God, or things belongng to him

. God

. הָאֱלֹהִים the (true) God

. אֱלֹהִים = God

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

430 'elohiym el-o-heem'

plural of 433; gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically

used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the

supreme God; occasionally applied by way of deference to

magistrates; and sometimes as a superlative:--angels, X

exceeding, God (gods)(-dess, -ly), X (very) great, judges, X

mighty.

see HEBREW for 0433

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

אֱלֹהִים (e.lo.him) — God.

This name means "gods" (plural intensive-singular meaning), "God"

Another name of ye.ho.vah (יהוה "LORD" H3068G)

אֱלֹהִים (e.lo.him) — (LORD)-Elohe.

Combined with ye.ho.vah (יהוה "LORD" H3068)

אֱלֹהִים (e.lo.him) — (Gibeath)-elohim.

Combined with giv.ah (גִּבְעָה "Gibeath" H1389)

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Art | N-mp — Particle · noun common masculine plural absolute
HTd/Ncmpa
Bible dictionarieson the English sense
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia

god ('Elohim, 'El, [`Elyon], Shadday, Yahweh; Theos):

I. INTRODUCTION TO THE GENERAL IDEA

1. The Idea in Experience and in Thought

2. Definition of the Idea

3. The Knowledge of God

4. Ethnic Ideas of God

(1) Animism

(2) Fetishism

(3) Idolatry

(4) Polytheism

(5) Henotheism

(6) Pantheism

(7) Deism

(8) Semitic Monolatry

(9) Monotheism

II. THE IDEA OF GOD IN THE OLD TESTAMENT

1. The Course of Its Development

2. Forms of Its Manifestation

(1) The Face or Countenance of God

(2) The Voice and Word of God

(3) The Glory of God

(4) The Angel of God

(5) The Spirit of God

(6) The Name of God

(7) Occasional Forms

3. The Names of God

(1) Generic

(2) Attributive

(3) Yahweh

4. Pre-prophetic Conceptions of God

(1) Yahweh Alone Is the God of Israel

(a) His Early Worship

(b) Popular Religion

(c) Polytheistic Tendencies

(i) Coordination

(ii) Assimilation

(iii) Disintegration

(d) No Hebrew Goddesses

(e) Human Sacrifices

Easton's Bible Dictionary

God

(A.S. and Dutch God; Dan. Gud; Ger. Gott), the name of the Divine Being. It is the rendering (1) of the Hebrew ’El, from a word meaning to be strong; (2) of ’Eloah_, plural _’Elohim. The singular form, Eloah, is used only in poetry. The plural form is more commonly used in all parts of the Bible, The Hebrew word Jehovah (q.v.), the only other word generally employed to denote the Supreme Being, is uniformly rendered in the Authorized Version by “LORD,” printed in small capitals. The existence of God is taken for granted in the Bible. There is nowhere any argument to prove it. He who disbelieves this truth is spoken of as one devoid of understanding (Ps. 14:1).

The arguments generally adduced by theologians in proof of the being of God are:

(1.) The a priori argument, which is the testimony afforded by reason.

Smith's Bible Dictionary

(good). Throughout the Hebrew Scriptures two chief names are used for the one true divine Being--ELOHIM, commonly translated God in our version, and JEHOVAH, translated Lord . Elohim is the plural of Eloah (in Arabic Allah); it is often used in the short form EL (a word signifying strength , as in EL-SHADDAI, God Almighty, the name by which God was specially known to the patriarchs. (Genesis 17:1; 28:3; Exodus 6:3) The etymology is uncertain, but it is generally agreed that the primary idea is that of strength, power of effect , and that it properly describes God in that character in which he is exhibited to all men in his works, as the creator, sustainer and supreme governor of the world. The plural form of Elohim has given rise to much discussion. The fanciful idea that it…

American Tract Society Bible Dictionary

This name, the derivation of which is uncertain, we give to that eternal, infinite, perfect, and incomprehensible Being, the Creator of all things, who preserves and governs all by his almighty power and wisdom, and is the only proper object of worship. The proper Hebrew name for God is JEHOVAH, which signifies He is. But the Jews, from a feeling of reverence, avoid pronouncing this name, substituting for it, wherever it occurs in the sacred test, the word ADONAI, Lord; except in the expression, ADONAI JEHOVAH, Lord Jehovah, for which they put, ADONAI ELOHIM, Lord God. This usage, which is not without an element of superstition, is very ancient, dating its origin some centuries before Christ; but there is no good ground for assuming its existence in the days of the inspired Old Testament writers. The proper word for God is ELOHIM, which is plural in its form, being thus used to signify…

and I set ! the object marker face my to [the] Lord God to seek prayer and supplications with fasting and sackcloth and ash[es]
לְבַקֵּ֥שׁle.va.Kesh to seek H1245 Preposition · verb piel infinitive construct common
225× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
This Hebrew verb means to seek or search for something. In Psalm 105:4, it's used to encourage seeking God's face. It's also used in 1 Samuel 28:8 where Saul seeks a medium.
Amplified meaning
search for, inquire of
Tyndale gloss
to seek
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

בָּקַשׁ (baqash) is a Hebrew verb meaning to seek or search out, often in the context of worship or prayer. It encompasses a range of actions including asking, desiring, and requiring. The verb can appear in different forms, such as Piel and Pual, indicating various nuances of seeking or being sought.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

[בָּקַשׁ] 224 vb. seek

Pi.

seek to find

seek to secure

seek the face

desire, demand

require, exact

exact equivalent or penalty for

(late) ask, request

Pu. be sought

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H1245 בָּקַשׁ seek

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

1245 baqash baw-kash'

a primitive root; to search out (by any method, specifically

in worship or prayer); by implication, to strive after:--ask,

beg, beseech, desire, enquire, get, make inquisition, procure,

(make) request, require, seek (for).

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

בָּקַשׁ (ba.qash) — to seek.

1) to seek, require, desire, exact, request

1a) (Piel)

1a1) to seek to find

1a2) to seek to secure

1a3) to seek the face

1a4) to desire, demand

1a5) to require, exact

1a6) to ask, request

1b) (Pual) to be sought

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Prep | V-Piel-Inf-a — Preposition · verb piel infinitive construct common
HR/Vpcc
and I set ! the object marker face my to [the] Lord God to seek prayer and supplications with fasting and sackcloth and ash[es]
תְּפִלָּ֖הte.fi.Lah prayer H8605 Noun common · feminine singular absolute
77× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
In the Bible, this word means prayer or supplication, often used to describe requests to God. It appears in many Psalms, highlighting the importance of prayer in worship.
Amplified meaning
supplication, heartfelt request
Tyndale gloss
prayer
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

תְּפִלָּה (tefillah) means 'prayer' and is derived from the root meaning intercession or supplication. It encompasses various forms of prayer, including hymns and requests for divine attention. The term appears in contexts such as the titles of Psalms, emphasizing its liturgical significance.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

תְּפִלָּה 77 n.f. prayer

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H8605 תְּפִלָּה prayer

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

8605 tphillah tef-il-law'

from 6419; intercession, supplication; by implication, a

hymn:--prayer.

see HEBREW for 06419

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

תְּפִלָּה (te.phil.lah) — prayer.

1) prayer

1a) prayer

1b) pray a prayer

1c) house of prayer

1d) hear prayer

1e) in Ps titles (of poetic or liturgical prayer)

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
N-fs — Noun common · feminine singular absolute
HNcfsa
Bible dictionarieson the English sense
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia

prar (deesis, proseuche, (enteuxis; for an excellent discussion of the meaning of these see Thayer's Lexicon, p. 126, under the word deesis; the chief verbs are euchomai, proseuchomai, and deomai, especially in Luke and Acts; aiteo, "to ask a favor" distinguished from erotao, "to ask a question," is found occasionally): In the Bible "prayer" is used in a simpler and a more complex a narrower and a wider signification. In the former case it is supplication for benefits either for one's self (petition) or for others (intercession). In the latter it is an act of worship which covers all soul in its approach to God. Supplication is at the heart of it, for prayer always springs out of a sense of need and a belief that God is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him (Heb 11:6). But adoration and confession and thanksgiving also find a…

Easton's Bible Dictionary

Prayer

Is converse with God; the intercourse of the soul with God, not in contemplation or meditation, but in direct address to him. Prayer may be oral or mental, occasional or constant, ejaculatory or formal. It is a “beseeching the Lord” (Ex. 32:11); “pouring out the soul before the Lord” (1 Sam. 1:15); “praying and crying to heaven” (2 Chr. 32:20); “seeking unto God and making supplication” (Job 8:5); “drawing near to God” (Ps. 73:28); “bowing the knees” (Eph. 3:14).

Smith's Bible Dictionary

The object of this article will be to touch briefly on -- The doctrine of Scripture as to the nature and efficacy of prayer; Its directions as to time, place and manner of prayer; Its types and examples of prayer. Scripture does not give any theoretical explanation of the mystery which attaches to prayer. The difficulty of understanding real efficacy arises chiefly from two sources: from the belief that man lives under general laws, which in all cases must be fulfilled unalterably; and the opposing belief that he is master of his own destiny, and need pray for no external blessing. Now, Scripture, while, by the doctrine of spiritual influence it entirely disposes of the latter difficulty, does not so entirely solve that part of the mystery which depends on the nature of God. It places it clearly before us, and emphasizes most strongly those doctrines on which the difficulty turns. Yet…

American Tract Society Bible Dictionary

Is the offering of the emotions and desires of the soul to God, in the name and through the mediation of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. It is the communion of the heart with God through the aid of the Holy Spirit, and is to the Christian the very life of the soul. Without this filial spirit, no one can be a Christian, Job 21:15 Ps 10:4.

In all ages God has delighted in the prayers of his saints. From the promulgation of the law, the Hebrews did not intermit public worship daily in the tabernacle or the temple. It consisted in offering the evening and morning sacrifices, every day, accompanied with prayers by the priests and Levites in that holy edifice. Every day also the priests offered sacrifices, incense, offerings, and first fruits for individuals; they performed ceremonies…

and I set ! the object marker face my to [the] Lord God to seek prayer and supplications with fasting and sackcloth and ash[es]
וְתַחֲנוּנִ֑יםve.ta.cha.nu.Nim and supplications H8469 Conjunction · noun common masculine plural absolute
18× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
This Hebrew word describes an earnest or heartfelt prayer, often used to express a deep desire for God's help or favor. It can be a plea to man or God, seeking kindness or mercy. The KJV translates it as intreaty or supplication.
Amplified meaning
earnest plea
Tyndale gloss
supplication
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

תַּחֲנוּן (tachanuwn) refers to a form of earnest prayer or supplication, specifically a request for favor, either to man or to God. It is derived from a root meaning to plead or entreat, and is noted as a masculine noun used in the plural abstract form.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

[תַּחֲנוּן] n.[m.] only pl.abstr. supplication for favour

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H8469 תַּחֲנוּן supplication for favour

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

8469 tachanuwn takh-an-oon'

or (feminine) tachanuwnah {takh-an-oo-naw'}; from 2603;

earnest prayer:--intreaty, supplication.

see HEBREW for 02603

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

תַּחֲנוּן (ta.cha.nun) — supplication.

1) supplication, supplication for favour

1a) to man

1b) to God

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Conj | N-mp — Conjunction · noun common masculine plural absolute
HC/Ncmpa
and I set ! the object marker face my to [the] Lord God to seek prayer and supplications with fasting and sackcloth and ash[es]
בְּצ֖וֹםbe.Tzom with fasting H6685 Preposition · noun common masculine singular absolute
26× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to fast or go without food, often for spiritual reasons. It appears in various forms, such as fasting or a fast. This concept is seen in the lives of prophets and leaders like Moses and Elijah.
Amplified meaning
abstaining from food, humbling myself
Tyndale gloss
fast
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

צוֹם (tsom) refers to fasting or a fast. It is derived from a root meaning related to abstaining from food, as indicated in the entries. The term is used in contexts related to religious observance, though specific verse references are not provided.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

צוֹם n.m. fasting, fast

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H6685 צוֹם fasting, fast

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

6685 tsowm tsome

or tsom {tsome}; from from 6684; a fast: --fast(-ing).

see HEBREW for 06684

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

צוֹם (tsom) — fast.

fast, fasting

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Prep | N-ms — Preposition · noun common masculine singular absolute
HR/Ncmsa
Bible dictionarieson the English sense
American Tract Society Bible Dictionary

In all ages, and among all nations, fasting has been practiced in times of sorrow, and affliction, Jon 3:5. It may be regarded as a dictate of nature, which under these circumstances refuses nourishment, and suspends the cravings of hunger. In the Bible no example is mentioned of fasting, properly so-called, before Moses. His forty days’ fast, like that of Elijah and of our Lord, was miraculous, De 9:9 1Ki 19:8 Mt 4:2. The Jews often had recourse to this practice, when they had occasion to humble themselves before God, to confess their sins and deprecate his displeasure, Jud 20:26

→ Observed on occasions of public calamities 2Sa 1:12

→ Afflictions Ps 35:13; Da 6:18

→ Private afflictions 2Sa 12:16

→ Approaching danger Es 4:16

→ Ordination of ministers Ac 13:3; 14:23

→ Accompanied by prayer Da 9:3

→ Confession of sin 1Sa 7:6; Ne 9:1,2

→ Humiliation De 9:18; Ne 9:1

Torrey's New Topical Textbook

- Spirit of, explained

Isa 58:6,7

- Not to be made a subject of display

Mt 6:16-18

- Should be to God

Zec 7:5; Mt 6:18

- For the chastening of the soul

Ps 69:10

- For the humbling of the soul

Ps 35:13

- OBSERVED ON OCCASIONS OF

. Judgments of God

Joe 1:14; 2:12

. Public calamities

2Sa 1:12

. Afflictions of the Church

Lu 5:33-35

. Afflictions of others

and I set ! the object marker face my to [the] Lord God to seek prayer and supplications with fasting and sackcloth and ash[es]
וְשַׂ֥קve.Sak and sackcloth H8242 Conjunction · noun common masculine singular absolute
49× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
This term refers to a coarse cloth or sack used for mourning or carrying grain. People wore sackcloth to show humility or grief, like in the book of Esther. It symbolized repentance and sorrow.
Amplified meaning
coarse cloth
Tyndale gloss
sackcloth
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

שַׂק (saq) refers to a type of coarse cloth or sacking, often associated with mourning. It can denote both a sack used for carrying grain and sackcloth worn in times of grief or humiliation. The term is derived from a root meaning to allow liquid to pass through, indicating its mesh-like quality.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

שַׂק n.m. sack, sackcloth

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H8242 שַׂק sack, sackcloth

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

8242 saq sak

from 8264; properly, a mesh (as allowing a liquid to run

through), i.e. coarse loose cloth or sacking (used in mourning

and for bagging); hence, a bag (for grain,

etc.):--sack(-cloth, -clothes).

see HEBREW for 08264

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

שַׂק (saq) — sackcloth.

1) mesh, sackcloth, sack, sacking

1a) sack (for grain)

1b) sackcloth

1b1) worn in mourning or humiliation

1b2) same material spread out to lie on

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Conj | N-ms — Conjunction · noun common masculine singular absolute
HC/Ncmsa
Bible dictionarieson the English sense
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia

sak'-kloth.

See BURIAL.

Easton's Bible Dictionary

Sackcloth

Cloth made of black goats’ hair, coarse, rough, and thick, used for sacks, and also worn by mourners (Gen. 37:34; 42:25; 2 Sam. 3:31; Esther 4:1, 2; Ps. 30:11, etc.), and as a sign of repentance (Matt. 11:21). It was put upon animals by the people of Nineveh (Jonah 3:8).

Smith's Bible Dictionary

cloth used in making sacks or bags, a coarse fabric, of a dark color, made of goat’s hair, (Isaiah 50:3; Revelation 6:12) end resembling the eilicium of the Romans. It, was used also for making the rough garments used by mourners, which were in extreme cases worn next the skin. (1 Kings 21:27; 2 Kings 6:30; Job 16:15; Isaiah 32:11)

Nave's Topical Bible

→ A symbol of mourning 1Ki 20:31,32; Job 16:15; Isa 15:3; Jer 4:8; 6:26; 49:3; La 2:10; Eze 7:18; Da 9:3; Joe 1:8

→ Worn by Jacob when it was reported to him that Joseph had been devoured by wild animals Ge 37:34

→ Animals covered with, at a time of national mourning Jon 3:8

→ See MOURNING

and I set ! the object marker face my to [the] Lord God to seek prayer and supplications with fasting and sackcloth and ash[es]
וָאֵֽפֶר׃va.'E.fer and ash[es] H665 Conjunction · noun common masculine singular absolute
22× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
In the Bible, this word refers to ashes, often symbolizing worthlessness or something worthless. It is used to describe something that has been destroyed or reduced to nothing.
Tyndale gloss
ashes
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

The Hebrew word אֵ֫פֶר (*epher*) means 'ashes' and is derived from an unused root meaning to bestrew. It primarily refers to ashes, but can also imply worthlessness in a figurative sense. The entries suggest a connection to the light and flying nature of ashes.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

אֵ֫פֶר n.[m.] ashes (as light, flying?)

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H665 אֵ֫פֶר ashes (as light, flying?)

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

665 'epher ay'-fer

from an unused root meaning to bestrew; ashes:--ashes.

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

אֵ֫פֶר (e.pher) — ashes.

1) ashes

2) (CLBL) worthlessness (fig.)

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Conj | N-ms — Conjunction · noun common masculine singular absolute
HC/Ncmsa
Sources on this page. Lexicons and dictionaries imported from the CrossWire SWORD modules — Abbott-Smith, Strong's, Dodson, the Intermediate Liddell-Scott-Jones, Robinson and Packard, Webster and Cawdrey. Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament (Harper, 1889 — Grimm’s Wilke’s Clavis Novi Testamenti, translated, revised and enlarged by Joseph Henry Thayer) is public domain and is set here from the Internet Archive page scan greekenglishlex00grim; it is uncorrected OCR, marked as such on the entry itself, and the Strong’s numbers — which Thayer’s own edition does not carry — were matched by lemma against the other modules on this page. Trench’s Synonyms of the New Testament (Macmillan, 1880) and Moulton and Milligan’s Vocabulary of the Greek Testament (Hodder & Stoughton, 1930, which entered the United States public domain on 1 January 2026) are set from Internet Archive page scans synonymsofnewtes00treniala and vocabularyofgree00mouluoft, and are likewise uncorrected OCR matched to Strong’s numbers by lemma. Trench treats a group of words at once, so the same essay stands on the page of each word it compares. The Mounce Concise Greek-English Dictionary is © 1993 and is used here by permission for non-commercial use, www.teknia.com/greek-dictionary. The full Liddell-Scott-Jones and the Hebrew word data (TAHOT) come from STEPBible.org, CC BY 4.0. Brown-Driver-Briggs is the OpenScriptures digitisation, public domain. Syntax analysis is the Nestle 1904 Lowfat treebank (biblicalhumanities.org); the concordance and morphology are built from the tagged Nestle 1904 text. Septuagint occurrences use the Open Scriptures Septuagint lemma index, derived from CCAT (University of Pennsylvania) and the Rahlfs 1935 dataset by Eliran Wong, CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 — used here on a non-commercial ministry site. Greek of Josephus and Barnabas from the Perseus Digital Library, CC BY-SA 4.0. Commentaries and the Ante-Nicene Fathers are public-domain texts hosted on this site. Everyday Greek from the Duke Databank of Documentary Papyri, CC BY 3.0, with dates and provenance from the Heidelberger Gesamtverzeichnis. Philo and the Apostolic Fathers from Open Greek and Latin (First1KGreek), CC BY-SA 4.0. The apparatus and the fifth Greek column are the SBL Greek New Testament, © 2010 SBL and Logos Bible Software, CC BY 4.0. The Latin is the Clementine Vulgate (public domain); the Syriac New Testament is the ETCBC edition (MIT licence). The Hebrew behind the Greek is computed here from the Septuagint index and TAHOT, not taken from any aligned edition. The translation spread and the per-word edition marks come from the Translators Amalgamated Greek NT (STEPBible, CC BY 4.0); clause roles from the Nestle 1904 Lowfat treebank (CC BY-SA 4.0); place identifications and their confidence from OpenBible.info Bible Geocoding (CC BY 4.0), with map tiles © OpenStreetMap contributors. Gospel parallels are computed here from shared uncommon vocabulary, not taken from any printed harmony. Cross references are the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge and the subject headings are Nave’s Topical Bible, both public domain. Works under Creative Commons licences are used unchanged apart from markup removal.

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