from בָּלָה; properly, a failure; by implication nothing; usually (adverb) not at all; also lest; lest, neither, no, none (that...), not (any), nothing.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bal**, represented by `{{H1077}}`, functions as a strong adverb of negation. Derived from a root meaning failure, it implies nothingness and is typically translated as **not at all**, **no**, **none**, or **lest**. It appears **9 times** across **8 unique verses** in the Bible, often used to express an absolute lack of something or a firm prohibition.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H1077}}` conveys definitive negation in various contexts. It can describe a complete absence of knowledge, as with the foolish woman who "knoweth **nothing**" [[Proverbs 9:13]]. The word also functions as a cautionary warning, as when the psalmist advises people not to be like a mule, **lest** it comes near to harm them [[Psalms 32:9]]. In prophetic literature, it underscores the futility of human effort apart from God, such as when Israel laments, "we have **not** wrought any deliverance in the earth" [[Isaiah 26:18]]. It is also used to express the finality of God's judgment, as when He seeks out the wickedness of the evil man until He finds **none** [[Psalms 10:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to frame the contexts in which `{{H1077}}` appears:
* `{{H7563}}` **râshâʻ** (wicked): The negation of `{{H1077}}` is often applied to the wicked. Even when shown favor, the wicked person will **not** learn righteousness [[Isaiah 26:10]]. The psalmist desires for the wicked man's power to be broken until his evil is found to be **none** [[Psalms 10:15]].
* `{{H3925}}` **lâmad** (learn, teach): This word is directly negated by `{{H1077}}` to describe a moral inability. The wicked man who is shown favor by God "will **not learn** righteousness" [[Isaiah 26:10]], highlighting a refusal to be taught.
* `{{H7200}}` **râʼâh** (to see, behold, perceive): `{{H1077}}` is used to express a spiritual blindness. In a land of uprightness, the wicked man deals unjustly and "will **not behold** the majesty of the LORD" [[Isaiah 26:10]].
* `{{H312}}` **ʼachêr** (another, other): This term appears in contexts of absolute loyalty, where `{{H1077}}` negates any association with other gods. The psalmist vows he will **not** take up the names of another god on his lips [[Psalms 16:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H1077}}` lies in its role in establishing sharp moral and spiritual distinctions.
* **Absolute Prohibition:** The term is used to declare absolute prohibitions in covenant faithfulness. For instance, the psalmist's commitment to God is expressed through what he will **not** do, such as offering drink offerings of blood to other gods [[Psalms 16:4]].
* **Consequence of Sin:** `{{H1077}}` describes the ultimate consequences of iniquity. A judgment is prepared for the children of the wicked so that "they do **not** rise, nor possess the land" [[Isaiah 14:21]], effectively nullifying their future.
* **Spiritual Inability:** The word underscores the inability of the unrighteous to perceive or learn spiritual truth on their own. Even when shown God's favor, the wicked "will he **not** learn righteousness" and "will **not** behold the majesty of the LORD" [[Isaiah 26:10]].
* **Human Futility vs. Divine Power:** `{{H1077}}` contrasts human limitations with God's sovereignty. While the people of Israel confessed "we have **not** wrought any deliverance," God promises a future where His glorious presence will ensure **no** enemy ship can pass ([[Isaiah 26:18]], [[Isaiah 33:21]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1077}}` **bal** is more than a simple negative; it is a declaration of absolute failure, prohibition, or absence. It is used to draw sharp lines between righteousness and wickedness, divine power and human futility, and true worship and idolatry. Whether expressing that the wicked will **not** see God's majesty or that a foolish person knows **nothing**, **bal** serves as a critical marker of negation and consequence throughout Scripture.
TRV