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H659 · Hebrew · Old Testament
אֶפֶס
Ephes
Noun, masculine; Adverb
End / Nought / Ceasing

Definition

The Hebrew word ephes (אֶפֶס) denotes an end, extremity, or cessation — the point where something stops or ceases to exist. Used as an adverb it means 'nothing,' 'nought,' or 'only' (in the sense of 'nothing but'). It emphasizes the absolute nothingness or sole exclusivity of something.

Usage & Theological Significance

Ephes is used powerfully in prophetic declarations of God's absolute sovereignty. 'There is none else, there is no God beside me' uses this word to assert the uniqueness and incomparability of Yahweh. All rival claims to deity are ephes — nothing, nought. This radical monotheism is foundational to Israel's faith and the New Testament confession that 'there is no other name under heaven by which we must be saved.'

Key Bible Verses

Isaiah 45:6 So that from the rising of the sun to the place of its setting people may know there is none besides me. I am the LORD, and there is no other.
Isaiah 46:9 Remember the former things, those of long ago; I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me.
Deuteronomy 32:36 The LORD will vindicate his people and relent concerning his servants when he sees their strength is gone and no one is left, slave or free.
2 Samuel 9:3 The king asked, 'Is there no one still alive from the house of Saul to whom I can show God's kindness?' Ziba answered the king, 'There is still a son of Jonathan; he is lame in both feet — nothing more.'
Numbers 13:28 But the people who live there are powerful, and the cities are fortified and very large. We even saw descendants of Anak there.

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