In Biblical Hebrew, the infinitive – known as shem ha-po’al (שֵׁם הַפֹּעַל) – is a foundational verb form that expresses action in its purest, most abstract form. It’s not tied to a specific subject, tense, or number, making it ideal for describing purpose, command, or potential.
Infinitives appear frequently in biblical texts, especially in laws, narratives, and poetic expressions. They help convey intention, obligation, and timeless truths.
What Is the Infinitive?
The infinitive is the “to do” form of the verb – like to speak, to go, or to build in English. In Hebrew, it’s a non-conjugated form that can function as:
- A noun: the concept of doing something
- A verbal complement: expressing purpose or result
- A command or instruction: especially in legal or prophetic texts
Common Infinitive Patterns
Biblical Hebrew uses two main types of infinitives:
1. Infinitive Construct
- Often used with prepositions like ל- (to), כ- (as), מ- (from), or ב- (in)
- Appears in phrases like:
- לֵאמֹר – “to say”
- לָלֶכֶת – “to go”
- לִשְׁמֹר – “to guard”
This form is flexible and widely used to express purpose, obligation, or sequence.
2. Infinitive Absolute
- A stronger, emphatic form often used for:
- Reinforcing a verb:
-
- אָכוֹל תֹּאכַל
– “you shall surely eat”
-
- Expressing certainty or intensity
- Standing alone as a command or declaration
- Reinforcing a verb:
This form is powerful and poetic, often appearing in prophetic or legal contexts.
Gender and Number?
Unlike conjugated verbs, the infinitive does not change for gender or number. It’s a fixed form that applies universally. However, it can be paired with nouns or pronouns that carry gender/number information.
Word Order and Syntax
Infinitives can appear:
- Before or after the main verb
- With prepositions to express purpose:
- לִשְׁמֹר אֶת הַמִּצְוֹת – “to keep the commandments”
- In parallel structures for poetic rhythm:
- לִרְאוֹת וְלִשְׁמֹעַ – “to see and to hear”
Why It Matters
Understanding the infinitive in Biblical Hebrew helps learners:
- Recognize purpose and intention in biblical texts
- Interpret legal and prophetic language with clarity
- Appreciate poetic and rhetorical structures
In the Bible, the infinitive is more than a grammatical form – it’s a gateway to timeless action. It expresses what must be done, what could be done, and what defines human and divine purpose.