An examination of the use of the verb ‘Haya’ (ה'ה) ‘be’ in biblical Hebrew

Abstract

The accompanying thesis details the way in which the Hebrew verb ‘Haya’ (h), ‘b’ functions. The study begins by summarising briefly the threefold aspect of the verb 'be', (i) as Copula, (ii) as expressing 'Existence', and (iii) to denote Transition or 'Becoming'. It is shown how each aspect has its basic syntax as regards subject definition and the nature of the predicate, such that a defined nominal subject, an adjectival or nominal predicate is normally associated with a Copula usage, whilst undefined nominal subjects and adverbial predicates usually denote Existence. The transitional aspect is expressed by the verb and the preposition '1', 'to'. From this point the use of ‘Haya’ (h) in its two themes, and Niphal, are thoroughly investigated. It becomes increasingly evident that its more particular function is to locate a situation or event more specifically in time rather than point to the nature of that action as complete or incomplete. The Perfect, Perfect with weak waw, Imperfect Consecutive and Preterite Imperfect 'tenses' indicate past time, and Imperfect, Imperfect with weak waw, and Perfect Consecutive 'tenses' speak of the future. This temporal indication is also the specific function of the verb 'haya (h)' when used "non-integrally" at the commencement of clauses. An explanation is offered for the non-appearance of the verb 'haya’ (h) ' in any other theme, and in particular how the 'causative' connotation is conveyed. Before moving to a consideration of the two particles 'yes' 'there is', and ‘ayin', 'there is not' and their role as supplementing the verb ‘Haya’ (h) by denoting "pfesent existence, the increasing use of that verb in compound with participles is traced. The conclusions are listed more formally and in the Appendices every occurrence of the verb is given for ease of reference.