### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Baʻălîyç**, represented by `{{H1185}}`, is the proper name of an Ammonitish king. Its probable meaning is "in exultation." This name is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical reference to `{{H1185}}` occurs in the book of Jeremiah. In the narrative, a warning is brought to Gedaliah, the governor of Judah, about a conspiracy against his life. The text asks, "Dost thou certainly **know** `{{H3045}}` that **Baalis** `{{H1185}}` the **king** `{{H4428}}` of the Ammonites hath **sent** `{{H7971}}` Ishmael the **son** `{{H1121}}` of Nethaniah to **slay** `{{H5221}}` thee?" [[Jeremiah 40:14]]. This verse establishes Baalis as a hostile foreign ruler orchestrating a plot. The account tragically concludes that Gedaliah did not **believe** `{{H539}}` the report.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related figures and terms from this passage help clarify the context of Baalis's actions:
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (a king): This title is applied directly to **Baalis**, defining his royal status and authority over the Ammonite people [[Jeremiah 40:14]].
* `{{H1436}}` **Gᵉdalyâh** (Gedaliah): As the governor of Judah and son of **Ahikam** `{{H296}}`, he is the target of the assassination plot orchestrated by Baalis. The narrative crucially notes that he did not believe the warning he received [[Jeremiah 40:14]].
* `{{H3458}}` **Yishmâʻêʼl** (Ishmael): Identified as the son of **Nethaniah** `{{H5418}}`, he is the agent whom Baalis sent to carry out the murder of Gedaliah [[Jeremiah 40:14]].
### Theological Significance
The brief mention of `{{H1185}}` highlights several important themes within its immediate context:
* **Political Conspiracy:** The account of **Baalis** introduces a story of international intrigue. As the Ammonite **king** `{{H4428}}`, he secretly plans to destabilize Judah by having its governor assassinated [[Jeremiah 40:14]].
* **Foreign Hostility:** Baalis personifies the threat posed by neighboring kingdoms. His plot to **slay** `{{H5221}}` Gedaliah is a clear act of aggression from the Ammonites `{{H5983}}` against the vulnerable remnant of Judah.
* **Unheeded Warnings:** The narrative serves as a stark example of disregarded counsel. Gedaliah is explicitly told of the threat from **Baalis** but refuses to believe it, a decision that ultimately leads to his death [[Jeremiah 40:14]].
### Summary
In summary, **Baʻălîyç** `{{H1185}}` is the name of an Ammonite king mentioned once in Scripture. His appearance in [[Jeremiah 40:14]] portrays him as a conspirator and an enemy of the people of Judah. While a minor figure, the story involving Baalis provides a potent illustration of political treachery, foreign opposition, and the fatal consequences of failing to heed a credible warning during a tumultuous period of Israel's history.
TRV