or בַּלְעֲדֵי; constructive plural from בַּל and עַד, not till, i.e. (as preposition or adverb); except, without, besides; beside, not (in), save, without.
Transliteration:bilʻădêy
Pronunciation:bil-ad-ay'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term בִּלְעֲדֵי (bilʻădêy, `{{H1107}}`) is a preposition or adverb derived from the negative particle בַּל (bal, `{{H1077}}`, "not, lest") and the preposition עַד (ʻad, `{{H5703}}`, "until, as far as, up to"). Etymologically, it conveys the sense of "not up to" or "not until," which semantically develops into meanings of exclusion, separation, or distinction. Its primary semantic range includes "except," "without," "besides," "apart from," "save," and "not (in)." This word functions to mark something as distinct from a general group, to indicate the absence of something, or to specify an exception to a rule or statement. It inherently carries a sense of demarcation, setting boundaries around what is included or excluded.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
בִּלְעֲדֵי (bilʻădêy, `{{H1107}}`) appears numerous times throughout the Hebrew Bible, consistently bearing its core meaning of exclusion or distinction. For instance, it is frequently employed to emphasize the uniqueness of God, as seen in declarations like "there is no God *besides* me" [[Deuteronomy 4:35]] or "Is there a God *besides* me? Yea, there is no Rock; I know not any" [[Isaiah 44:8]]. In these contexts, the word underscores Yahweh's unparalleled sovereignty and singularity, asserting monotheism against polytheistic conceptions.
Beyond theological affirmations, it describes human inability or dependence. For example, a person might declare they can do nothing *without* the Lord's help [[Psalm 73:25]]. It can also denote a lack or absence, such as a place being *without* inhabitants [[Isaiah 5:8]]. In legal or covenantal contexts, it might specify conditions or exceptions, indicating something that is true *except* for a particular circumstance [[Genesis 14:24]]. The usage in [[Exodus 22:10]] concerning an animal "without" a witness further illustrates its application in establishing conditions or states of being. The consistent thread is the delineation of what is separate, absent, or an exception to the norm.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of בִּלְעֲדֵי (bilʻădêy, `{{H1107}}`) interacts with several other Hebrew terms. Words conveying a similar sense of separation or distinctness include בָּד (bad, `{{H905}}`), meaning "alone" or "apart," and אֵין (ʾayin, `{{H369}}`), which signifies "nothing," "not," or "without." While אֵין (ʾayin) is a more general negation, בִּלְעֲדֵי (bilʻădêy) often implies a specific exclusion or an "except for" clause. Conversely, terms that denote inclusion or presence, such as עִם (ʻim, `{{H5973}}`, "with") or אֵת (ʾet, `{{H854}}`, "with"), stand in direct semantic opposition. The concept of "holiness" (קֹדֶשׁ, qodesh, `{{H6944}}`), which implies separation or distinctness for sacred purposes, also shares a conceptual link, as it involves setting something apart from the common or profane.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of בִּלְעֲדֵי (bilʻădêy, `{{H1107}}`) is profound, particularly in its affirmation of God's absolute uniqueness and supremacy. When used to declare "there is no God *besides* Me," it serves as a foundational statement of biblical monotheism, distinguishing Yahweh from all other purported deities. This highlights His incomparable nature, omnipotence, and singular claim to worship. Furthermore, the word underscores human dependence on God; humanity's efforts or existence are often depicted as futile or impossible *without* divine intervention, guidance, or presence. This emphasizes grace, sovereignty, and the necessity of faith. In covenantal contexts, it can delineate the exclusive terms of God's relationship with His people, reinforcing the boundaries and privileges of that sacred bond. The term thus articulates both divine transcendence and immanence, revealing God as distinct from creation yet intimately involved in its affairs, often as the sole source of life and blessing.
### Summary
בִּלְעֲדֵי (bilʻădêy, `{{H1107}}`) is a crucial Hebrew term meaning "except," "without," "besides," or "apart from." Formed from "not" and "until," its core function is to denote exclusion, separation, or distinction. In biblical literature, it frequently highlights God's unparalleled uniqueness and sole deity, asserting His singular nature against all other claimants. It also describes human limitation and dependence, emphasizing that certain actions or states are impossible *without* divine aid. This word, therefore, serves as a powerful linguistic tool for articulating fundamental theological truths concerning God's sovereignty, human reliance, and the exclusive nature of divine revelation and covenant.
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