Hebrew · Strong's H5975
עָמַד
(ah-MAHD)
verb
To assume or maintain an upright position, often implying continuity, service, or a state of being ready.
The Hebrew verb עָמַד (ʿamad) is a broad term with a significant semantic range, primarily denoting the act of standing. This can be understood literally, referring to the physical posture of subjects, animals, or even inanimate objects. However, its usage extends metaphorically to describe states of being, continuance, steadfastness, or readiness for action. The term often conveys the idea of remaining in a particular state or place, as well as taking a stand in a confrontational or supportive manner. It is frequently used in legal contexts to describe someone standing before a judge or in a religious setting to indicate standing before God.
Beyond a simple physical posture, עָמַד (ʿamad) carries theological weight, particularly in its association with divine presence and service. To "stand before" the Lord can signify a position of honor, readiness for service, or even intercession on behalf of others. This standing demands reverence and a recognition of God's authority. The concept of standing firm or enduring is also vital, portraying resilience and faithfulness in the face of challenges. In a broader sense, it can convey the establishment or confirmation of something, suggesting a state of permanence or stability.
Its versatility allows it to describe a wide array of situations, from armies standing ready for battle to prophets standing to deliver a message from God. The nuances of עָמַד (ʿamad) are often dependent on the accompanying prepositions and context, which further refine its meaning to express location, purpose, or duration. This rich vocabulary highlights not only physical actions but also the spiritual and social implications of being in a particular stance or condition within the biblical narrative.
Common English renderings
- stand
- stood
- stood still
- set
- establish
- remain
- abide
Key verses
"And Ezra the scribe stood upon a pulpit of wood, which they had made for the purpose; and beside him stood Mattithiah, and Shema, and Anaiah, and Uriah, and Hilkiah, and Maaseiah, on his right hand; and on his left hand, Pedaiah, and Mishael, and Malchijah, and Hashum, and Hashbaddanah, Zechariah, and Meshullam."
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"Above him stood the seraphim: each one had six wings; with twain he covered his face, and with twain he covered his feet, and with twain he did fly."
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"My sons, be not now negligent; for Jehovah hath chosen you to stand before him, to minister unto him, and that ye should be his ministers, and burn incense."
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"Therefore he said that he would destroy them, Had not Moses his chosen stood before him in the breach, To turn away his wrath, lest he should destroythem."
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"Thus saith Jehovah: Stand in the court of Jehovah’s house, and speak unto all the cities of Judah, which come to worship in Jehovah’s house, all the words that I command thee to speak unto them; diminish not a word."
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"And his feet shall stand in that day upon the mount of Olives, which is before Jerusalem on the east; and the mount of Olives shall be cleft in the midst thereof toward the east and toward the west, and there shall be a very great valley; and half of the mountain shall remove toward the north, and half of it toward the south."
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Related words