The Hithpael stem in Biblical Hebrew is a dynamic and reflective verbal form, often used to indicate reflexive, reciprocal, or intensive actions. As a derived stem, the Hithpael frequently conveys a subject acting upon itself, performing actions in a repetitive or deliberate manner, or engaging in mutual interaction with others. Found throughout the Tanakh, this stem enriches the Hebrew language by allowing for nuanced expressions of self-involvement, transformation, or collective participation. Whether describing repentance, purification, or mutual engagement, the Hithpael plays a vital role in the theological and literary tapestry of Scripture. Mastering the Hithpael opens a window into the complex relationships and deep introspection often conveyed in Biblical Hebrew, helping readers uncover profound layers of meaning and intent.
The Hithpael stem is one of the most fascinating and expressive verb forms in Biblical Hebrew. It serves to convey actions that are reflexive, reciprocal, or intensive. Understanding the Hithpael unlocks a deeper appreciation of the intricate meanings conveyed in the Tanakh, shedding light on passages where individuals act upon themselves, interact with others, or participate in transformative actions.
Characteristics of the Hithpael Stem
The Hithpael stem has several defining features that set it apart from other verb forms:
Reflexive Action
- The subject performs the action on itself.
- Example: הִתְקַדֵּשׁ (*hitqadesh*, “sanctify oneself”) – Exodus 19:22: “Let the priests who come near to the Lord consecrate themselves.”
Reciprocal Action
- Two or more subjects perform the action toward one another.
- Example: וַיִּתְנַבְּאוּ (*vayitnabe’u*, “they prophesied with one another”) – Numbers 11:25: “And they prophesied but did not do so again.”
Intensive Action
- The action is carried out with intensity or earnestness.
- Example: הִתְפַּלֵּל (*hitpallel*, “to pray earnestly”) – Genesis 20:17: “Abraham prayed to God, and God healed Abimelech.”
Stative or Transformative Action
- Indicates a change of state or transformation.
- Example: הִתְהַלֵּךְ (*hithalek*, “to walk about, to wander”) – Genesis 17:1: “Walk before me and be blameless.”
Grammatical Markers
- The Hithpael is typically recognized by the prefix הִתְ, though variations may occur based on phonological considerations.
- In participle forms, the prefix מִתְ is often used, as in מִתְפַּלֵּל (*mitpallel*, “praying”).
Formation of the Hithpael Stem
The Hithpael stem is formed by adding the prefix הִתְ to the verb root and applying specific vowel patterns.
Infinitive Construct
- Example: הִתְקַטֵּל (*hitqatel*, “to kill oneself”)
Perfect Form
- Example: הִתְחַזַּק (*hitchazaq*, “he strengthened himself”) – 1 Samuel 30:6: “But David strengthened himself in the Lord his God.”
Imperfect Form
- Example: יִתְחַזֵּק (*yitchazeq*, “he will strengthen himself”) – Joshua 1:7: “Only be strong and very courageous.”
Participle Form
- Example: מִתְהַלֵּךְ (*mithalek*, “wandering”) – Genesis 13:17: “Arise, walk through the land in its length and breadth.”
Imperative Form
- Example: הִתְפַּלֵּל (*hitpallel*, “pray!”)
Usage of the Hithpael Stem in the Tanakh
Self-Purification and Sanctification
- Reflexive actions involving preparation or purification.
- Example: הִתְקַדַּשׁ (*hitqadash*, “sanctify oneself”) – Joshua 3:5: “Sanctify yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do wonders among you.”
Prayer and Supplication
- Actions involving earnest prayer or petition.
- Example: הִתְפַּלֵּל (*hitpallel*, “pray”) – 1 Kings 8:28: “Yet give attention to your servant’s prayer and his plea for mercy.”
Repentance and Humility
- Reflexive actions of repentance or self-humbling.
- Example: הִתְנַחֵם (*hitnachem*, “to repent”) – Exodus 32:14: “So the Lord relented from the harm He said He would do to His people.”
Interpersonal Interaction
- Reciprocal actions such as prophesying or conversing.
- Example: הִתְנַבֵּא (*hitnabe*, “prophesy”) – 1 Samuel 10:5: “You will meet a group of prophets coming down from the high place… and you will prophesy with them.”
Transformative Journeys or States
- Descriptions of significant transformations or transitions.
- Example: הִתְהַלֵּךְ (*hithalek*, “walk about”) – Micah 6:8: “Walk humbly with your God.”
Examples of Hithpael in Context
- Genesis 22:6 – “And Abraham took the wood for the burnt offering and laid it on Isaac his son. And he himself carried the fire and the knife.”
– וַיִּתְהַלֵּךְ (*vayithalek*, “walked about”) demonstrates reflexive movement. - 1 Samuel 30:6 – “But David strengthened himself in the Lord his God.”
– וַיִּתְחַזֵּק (*vayitchazeq*, “he strengthened himself”) shows an internal resolve. - Ezekiel 14:3 – “These men have set up idols in their hearts.”
– הִתְעָנָה (*hit’ana*, “acted deceitfully”) emphasizes deliberate action. - 2 Chronicles 7:14 – “If my people, who are called by my name, humble themselves and pray…”
– יִתְפַּלְלוּ (*yitpallelu*, “will pray”) underscores reciprocal communal prayer.
The Role of the Hithpael in Biblical Hebrew
The Hithpael stem plays a crucial role in Biblical Hebrew, offering a unique way to describe actions that involve self-reflection, interaction, or intensity. Whether illustrating personal transformation, mutual engagement, or intense spiritual acts, the Hithpael enriches the language of the Tanakh. By studying its patterns and meanings, students can unlock deeper insights into the richness and beauty of Biblical texts.
Important Facts About the Hithpael Stem in Biblical Hebrew
Middle Voice Usage
The Hithpael sometimes functions as a “middle voice,” expressing actions where the subject is both the initiator and recipient of the action. This subtle distinction enhances the interpretation of reflexive or reciprocal actions.
Example: וַיִּתְלַכֵּד (*vayitlakeid*, “he ensnared himself”) – 2 Samuel 2:16, describing a situation where individuals are caught in their own actions.
Idiomatic Expressions
Some Hithpael verbs carry idiomatic meanings that go beyond their literal interpretation. Recognizing these can prevent misinterpretation of the text.
Example: הִתְנַכֵּל (*hitnachel*, “to scheme”) – Genesis 37:18: “They saw him from afar and conspired against him to kill him.” The reflexive stem here conveys plotting or scheming, not simply a personal action.
Hithpael and Theology
The Hithpael often appears in contexts involving personal or communal spiritual transformation, repentance, or divine-human interactions, highlighting its theological importance.
Example: הִתְבּוֹנֵן (*hitbonen*, “to consider”) – Psalm 119:15: “I will meditate on Your precepts and regard Your ways.” This emphasizes thoughtful self-reflection and engagement with divine instruction.
Interchangeability with Other Stems
Some verbs appear in both the Hithpael and other stems (e.g., Qal or Niphal), but the Hithpael adds a reflexive or intensified nuance.
Example: הִתְכַּבֵּד (*hitkabed*, “to glorify oneself”) in Isaiah 3:5 contrasts with כָּבֵד (*kabed*, “to honor”) in the Qal, which has a broader sense of honor or respect.
Dual Reflexive-Reciprocal Contexts
The Hithpael can simultaneously convey reflexive and reciprocal meanings, especially in poetic or narrative settings.
Example: הִתְרוֹעֵעַ (*hitro’e’a*, “to quarrel with one another”) – Proverbs 18:24: “A man of many companions may come to ruin.”
Formation Exceptions
Certain roots undergo unique morphological changes when forming the Hithpael stem, especially weak roots or those with guttural consonants.
Example: For roots like הלך (*halak*), the expected Hithpael form הִתְהַלֵּךְ (*hithalek*) undergoes vowel adjustments due to the guttural letter.
Expanded Semantic Range in Post-Biblical Hebrew
In later Hebrew (e.g., Mishnaic Hebrew), the Hithpael sometimes adopts broader meanings, reflecting linguistic evolution while maintaining its core reflexive and reciprocal functions.
Pronominal Usage
Hithpael verbs often appear with pronominal suffixes to intensify the reflexive or personal aspect.
Example: הִתְעַטֵּף נַפְשִׁי (*hit’atef nafshi*, “my soul faints within me”) – Psalm 142:3.
Emphasis in Prophetic Literature
Prophetic texts frequently use the Hithpael to emphasize actions of repentance, transformation, or divine justice, contributing to the theological depth of these books.
Example: הִתְנַחֵם (*hitnachem*, “repent/relent”) – Jonah 3:10: “When God saw their deeds… He relented concerning the calamity.”
Examples of Advanced Hithpael Usage
Isaiah 52:11
הִתְבּוֹרָרוּ (*hitboraru*, “purify yourselves”) – A reflexive command to maintain personal holiness in preparation for divine service.
Daniel 12:10
יִתְבָּרְרוּ (*yitbareru*, “will purify themselves”) – A prophetic description of the righteous undergoing moral refinement.
Psalm 55:2
הִתְעַנָּה (*hit’anna*, “be troubled”) – A personal expression of internal anguish.
