### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **maʼphêlᵉyâh**, represented by `{{H3991}}`, is a rare term for **opaqueness; darkness**. As a prolonged feminine form of `מַאֲפֵל`, it appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, making its single usage highly significant for understanding its meaning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H3991}}` is in [[Jeremiah 2:31]]. In this verse, the LORD poses a rhetorical question to a "generation" of Israel that has turned away from Him: "Have I been a wilderness unto Israel? a land of **darkness**?" The term is used metaphorically to describe a state of desolation, abandonment, or lack of divine guidance. By placing it alongside "wilderness" `{{H4057}}`, the text equates this "darkness" with a barren, unguided, and resourceless condition, questioning why the people would perceive God in such a negative light.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H3991}}` is illuminated by several related words used in the same passage:
* `{{H4057}}` **midbâr** (wilderness): Defined as "a pasture... a desert; also speech," this word is used in parallel with `{{H3991}}` to signify a place of desolation. It can also be a place of divine preparation, as seen when a voice cries in the **wilderness** to prepare the way of the LORD [[Isaiah 40:3]].
* `{{H776}}` **'erets** (land): This word for "earth" or "country" gives `{{H3991}}` a physical, spatial metaphor as a "**land** of darkness." God's relationship with His people is often tied to the state of their **land**, which He promises to heal if they turn from their wicked ways [[2 Chronicles 7:14]].
* `{{H7200}}` **râʼâh** (see): The command to "**see** ye the word of the LORD" [[Jeremiah 2:31]] stands in direct opposition to the concept of darkness. It calls for spiritual perception and understanding, contrasting with the blindness implied by turning away from God, who sees the heart while man looks on the outward appearance [[1 Samuel 16:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3991}}` is derived entirely from its unique, metaphorical context.
* **Divine Nature as Light:** The rhetorical question in [[Jeremiah 2:31]] powerfully asserts what God is *not*. He is not a source of opaqueness or despair. The character of the LORD `{{H3068}}` is presented elsewhere as a shepherd who provides for His people, ensuring they do not want [[Psalms 23:1]], which is the antithesis of a land of darkness.
* **Spiritual Blindness:** The "darkness" described is not a literal absence of light but a spiritual condition. It reflects Israel's flawed perception of God, which has caused them to turn away. The remedy is prescribed in the same verse: to "see" `{{H7200}}` the "word" `{{H1697}}` of the LORD, implying that engaging with God's revelation brings light and understanding.
* **A State of Godlessness:** By being paired with "wilderness" `{{H4057}}`, a place of testing and lack [[Deuteronomy 8:2]], "darkness" comes to signify a life or state devoid of God's presence and provision. It is a metaphor for the desolate consequences of rejecting a relationship with the LORD.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3991}}` **maʼphêlᵉyâh** is a potent and specific term whose meaning is defined by its single, powerful use. It does not refer to simple physical night but to a profound spiritual state of desolation, confusion, and perceived divine absence. Its appearance in [[Jeremiah 2:31]] serves as a stark rhetorical device to contrast the true, life-giving nature of God with the bleak, barren "land of darkness" that results from turning away from Him.
TRV