### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼallâh**, represented by `{{H427}}`, refers to an **oak** or other strong tree. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, yet its singular context marks a moment of significant covenantal action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H427}}` is found in the book of Joshua. After reciting God's law to the people of Israel, Joshua recorded their commitment in the book of the law of God. To create a lasting memorial of this event, he "took a great stone, and set it up there under an **oak**, that was by the sanctuary of the LORD" [[Joshua 24:26]]. Here, the **oak** serves as a natural landmark identifying the location of a sacred and binding agreement.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H427}}` is enriched by its association with several key theological words:
* `{{H8451}}` **tôwrâh** (law): This word for a precept or statute is central to the event. The stone was set up after Joshua wrote in the "book of the **law** of God" [[Joshua 24:26]]. This law is described as perfect and capable of converting the soul [[Psalms 19:7]].
* `{{H430}}` **ʼĕlôhîym** (God): The covenant was made in reference to the law of **God** [[Joshua 24:26]]. This term identifies the supreme God who is the source of the law and the one with whom Israel makes its covenant [[Jeremiah 31:33]].
* `{{H3068}}` **Yᵉhôvâh** (the Lord): The oak stood in a sanctified place, "by the sanctuary of the **LORD**" [[Joshua 24:26]]. This name for God emphasizes His eternal and covenant-keeping nature, the one to whom the people are to trust with all their heart [[Proverbs 3:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H427}}` is derived entirely from its unique placement in scripture.
* **Witness to Covenant:** The oak tree, being strong and long-lived, stands as a natural witness alongside the stone Joshua set up. It marks the physical space where Israel's commitment to the law of God `{{H8451}}` was formalized [[Joshua 24:26]].
* **Marker of Sacred Ground:** The tree's location "by the sanctuary of the LORD" [[Joshua 24:26]] imbues it with significance. It designates the place of the covenant as being in the very presence of Yᵉhôvâh `{{H3068}}`, linking a natural object to a holy site.
* **Permanence and Stability:** As a "strong tree," the oak provides a backdrop of endurance and stability for the recording of God's words in the book of the law, symbolizing the lasting nature of the agreement made that day.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H427}}` appears only once, its role is pivotal. It is more than a mere tree; it is a divinely placed landmark for a foundational moment of national commitment. The word **ʼallâh** illustrates how an element of the created world can serve as a powerful, silent testament to the enduring relationship between the LORD `{{H3068}}`, His people, and His law `{{H8451}}`.
TRV