The meaning of “אַיִן”
Understanding ʼayin reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
probably identical with אַיִן in the sense of query (compare אִי) whence, where. - where? (only in connection with prepo...
אַיִן
probably identical with אַיִן in the sense of query (compare אִי) whence, where. - where? (only in connection with prepositional prefix, whence) 1) where?, whence?
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Genesis 42:7 | “And Joseph saw his brethren, and he knew them, but made himself strange unto them, and spake roughly unto them; and he said unto them, Whence come ye? And they said, From the land of Canaan to buy food.” Word: אַיִן (ʼayin) | |
| Joshua 9:8 | “And they said unto Joshua, We are thy servants. And Joshua said unto them, Who are ye? and from whence come ye?” Word: אַיִן (ʼayin) | |
| 2 Kings 6:27 | “And he said, If the Lord do not help thee, whence shall I help thee? out of the barnfloor, or out of the winepress?” Word: אַיִן (ʼayin) | |
| Psalms 121:1 | “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help.” Word: אַיִן (ʼayin) | |
| Jonah 1:8 | “Then said they unto him, Tell us, we pray thee, for whose cause this evil is upon us; What is thine occupation? and whence comest thou? what is thy country? and of what people art thou?” Word: אַיִן (ʼayin) |