עִתִּי (it.ti)
it.ti
timely
H:AQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:A
Word Overview
The adjective itti describes something that is timely or ready. It appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in Leviticus 16:21, where the high priest lays his hands on the head of the live goat for Azazel. The word characterizes the goat as being prepared for its specific role in the ritual.
This single usage highlights a practical aspect of ancient worship: readiness was essential for the ceremony to proceed correctly. The term underscores that the animal was not just present, but suitably equipped and available for the moment of confession and release. Its rarity makes this instance particularly significant for understanding the precision required in Levitical law.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Hebrew word itti appears only once in the entire Old Testament, found in Leviticus 16:21 during the Day of Atonement ritual. It describes the live goat as being "ready" or prepared for its specific task. This readiness was not accidental; it required careful selection and preparation to ensure the animal was suitable for bearing the sins of the people.
For your faith, this word highlights the importance of being spiritually prepared to approach God. Just as the goat had to be ready for its role in the ceremony, we are called to present ourselves before God with hearts that are open and willing. It reminds us that our worship involves more than just showing up; it requires a genuine readiness to receive grace and respond to His leading.
While this term is rare, its single appearance carries significant weight. It teaches us that God values intentionality in our relationship with Him. When we come to Him, He meets us not with confusion, but with clarity and purpose, inviting us into a state of readiness that reflects our trust in His plan.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- ready1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- עִתִּ֖י1×
Key Verses
-
Leviticus 16:21
Aaron shall lay both his hands on the head of the live goat, and confess over him all the iniquities of the children of Israel, and all their transgressions, even all their sins; and he shall put them on the head of the goat, and shall send him away into the wilderness by the hand of a man who is ready.
The word describes the goat as ready for its role in bearing the sins, emphasizing the necessity of proper preparation in the atonement ritual.