Former
Textsâš¡ IN BRIEF (SUMMARY)
The Hebrew word for 'former' or 'maker' (yotser) functions as a noun meaning potter or framer, as seen in Isaiah 64:8, and the concept of 'former' (rishon) as an adjective denotes priority in time or rank, such as in the 'former rain' or 'firstborn'.
What is the meaning of Former in the Bible?
The Hebrew word for 'former' or 'maker' (yotser) functions as a noun meaning potter or framer, as seen in Isaiah 64:8, and the concept of 'former' (rishon) as an adjective denotes priority in time or rank, such as in the 'former rain' or 'firstborn'.
TEXTUAL SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing these distinct meanings clarifies theological distinctions between God as Creator versus God as sovereign ruler, and helps readers accurately interpret agricultural metaphors and genealogical precedence in biblical texts.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Former in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Former clarify?
Source Attribution & Provenance
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE) and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been editorially modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and formatted for fast contextual reference.