Etnachta

The Etnachta (Hebrew: אתנחתא, also spelled Etnachta, Etnachta, Ethnachta) is a cantillation mark (trope) in the Hebrew Bible. It is one of the most common and important disjunctive accents, serving as a major divider within a verse, often dividing the verse into two distinct halves. Its function is analogous to a semicolon or a colon in English punctuation, representing a moderate pause.

In the standard printed editions of the Hebrew Bible, the Etnachta is represented by a symbol resembling a reversed "L" with a dot above it, placed above the accented syllable of the word it modifies. This symbol indicates the melodic phrase associated with the Etnachta.

The placement of the Etnachta is governed by a complex set of rules related to the grammatical structure and meaning of the text. Understanding its placement is crucial for proper reading and understanding of the Biblical text, as it highlights key relationships between different parts of the verse.

The Etnachta belongs to the class of Melachim ("Kings") within the system of cantillation marks, denoting its significance as a major disjunctive accent. It frequently appears in conjunction with other cantillation marks, creating a hierarchical structure that guides the reader through the text.

The melodic realization of the Etnachta varies according to different Jewish traditions. Different communities (Ashkenazi, Sephardi, Yemenite, etc.) have developed distinct melodies for the Etnachta, reflecting the diverse musical heritage of Jewish liturgical practice. Despite these variations, the function of the Etnachta as a major pause within the verse remains consistent across traditions.