or בַּלְעֲדֵי; constructive plural from בַּל and עַד, not till, i.e. (as preposition or adverb); except, without, besides; beside, not (in), save, without.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bilʻădêy**, represented by `{{H1107}}`, functions as a preposition or adverb to mean **except**, **without**, or **beside**. It is derived from a construction meaning "not till." Appearing **17 times** in **16 unique verses**, it is a critical term used to express exclusion, separation, and the concept of something or someone being unique and apart from all others.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical contexts, `{{H1107}}` is most powerfully used to establish God's exclusive sovereignty. The LORD repeatedly declares through the prophet Isaiah, "beside{H1107} me there is no God" [[Isaiah 44:6]] and "beside{H1107} me there is no saviour" [[Isaiah 43:11]]. The word also defines the boundaries of delegated authority, as when Pharaoh tells Joseph, "without{H1107} thee shall no man{H376} lift up{H7311} his hand{H3027} or foot{H7272} in all the land{H776} of Egypt{H4714}" [[Genesis 41:44]]. It can also signify action taken apart from proper authority, such as when the women of Judah are accused of making offerings "without{H1107} our men{H582}" [[Jeremiah 44:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of exclusion and uniqueness:
* `{{H2108}}` **zûwlâh** (beside, save): A near-synonym used to emphasize God's singularity. It is used to declare there is no God "beside{H2108}" the LORD, reinforcing His unmatched nature [[Isaiah 45:21]].
* `{{H1350}}` **gâʼal** (redeemer): The LORD uses this title for Himself immediately after stating there is no God "beside{H1107}" Him, identifying redemption as a key role that He alone can fill [[Isaiah 44:6]].
* `{{H1129}}` **bânâh** (to build): This verb describes the prohibited act of building an altar "beside{H1107}" the one sanctioned by God, marking an act of rebellion and unauthorized worship [[Joshua 22:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1107}}` is significant in establishing core doctrines.
* **Divine Exclusivity:** The word is a cornerstone of biblical monotheism. It is used in God's most direct declarations of His own nature, such as, "Is there{H3426} a God{H433} beside{H1107} me? yea, there is no God{H6697}" [[Isaiah 44:8]].
* **Sovereignty and Legitimate Action:** `{{H1107}}` defines the limits of sanctioned power. Joseph humbly states that the ability to provide an answer of peace is not in him ("It is not in me{H1107}"), pointing instead to God's sovereign power [[Genesis 41:16]]. Conversely, an enemy envoy falsely claims divine approval by asking, "am I now come up{H5927} without{H1107} the LORD{H3068} against this land{H776}?" [[Isaiah 36:10]].
* **Human Accountability:** The word can mark actions taken outside of a proper relational or covenantal structure. Abram makes an exception for the portion of the men who went with him, "Save{H1107} only that which{H834} the young men{H5288} have eaten{H398}" [[Genesis 14:24]], while the law concerning jealousy addresses a wife who has gone aside "beside{H1107} thine husband{H376}" [[Numbers 5:20]].
### Summary
In summary, **bilʻădêy** `{{H1107}}` is a crucial term that moves beyond a simple meaning of "without." It is the linguistic tool used to frame God's absolute uniqueness, setting Him apart from all other powers and idols. It defines the boundaries of legitimate authority, both divine and human, and highlights actions that are either sanctioned or rebellious. Through this word, scripture emphasizes that there is nothing and no one beside the LORD.
TRV