### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼăhâlîym**, represented by `{{H174}}`, refers to **aloe wood** or the **(tree of lign-) aloes**. It is a word of foreign origin that appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. It consistently denotes a valuable, fragrant wood used for perfume and recognized for its natural beauty when planted by God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H174}}` is used in contexts of both luxury and natural splendor. It is listed as one of the precious fragrances, along with myrrh and cassia, that perfumes royal garments and brings gladness [[Psalms 45:8]]. In a prophetic blessing, the flourishing tribes of Israel are compared to "gardens by the river's side, as the trees of lign **aloes** which the LORD hath planted" [[Numbers 24:6]]. It is also cataloged among the "chief spices" in the allegorical garden of the beloved [[Song of Solomon 4:14]] and is used by the adulterous woman to perfume her bed as an act of seduction [[Proverbs 7:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and value of **aloes**:
* `{{H4753}}` **môr** (myrrh): This bitter, fragrant gum is mentioned alongside **aloes** in three of its four appearances, highlighting their common use as valuable perfumes ([[Psalms 45:8]], [[Proverbs 7:17]], [[Song of Solomon 4:14]]).
* `{{H1314}}` **besem** (fragrance; by implication, spicery): This word defines the category to which **aloes** belong, listed as one of the "chief **spices**" in the garden of the beloved [[Song of Solomon 4:14]].
* `{{H1593}}` **gannâh** (a garden): In Balaam's prophecy, the beauty of **aloes** is associated with well-watered **gardens** planted by the LORD, symbolizing divine blessing and life [[Numbers 24:6]].
* `{{H5130}}` **nûwph** (to perfume): This verb describes the action taken with **aloes**, as when the seductress in Proverbs says, "I have **perfumed** my bed with myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon" [[Proverbs 7:17]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H174}}` is found in its consistent association with value, beauty, and potent fragrance.
* **Symbol of Divine Blessing:** The reference to **aloes** as trees "which the LORD hath planted" establishes them as an image of natural beauty and flourishing that comes directly from God's hand [[Numbers 24:6]].
* **Element of Luxury and Royalty:** As a costly perfume, **aloes** were used to scent the garments of royalty, associated with joy, ivory palaces, and splendor [[Psalms 45:8]].
* **Component of Aromatic Gardens:** In the poetry of Song of Solomon, **aloes** are a key feature in a metaphorical garden of exotic plants, representing the richness and desirability of the beloved [[Song of Solomon 4:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H174}}` **ʼăhâlîym** denotes the precious aloe wood, prized for its fragrance and beauty. Though rare in scripture, its occurrences consistently place it in the company of other valuable spices like myrrh and cinnamon. It functions both as a tangible luxury for perfuming garments and beds and as a powerful symbol of divinely ordained beauty and prosperity.
TRV