### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼâlach**, represented by `{{H444}}`, is a primitive root used to describe a state of moral corruption. Its base definition is to muddle, or figuratively, to turn corrupt and **become filthy**. It appears only 3 times in 3 unique verses, but each instance carries significant weight in describing the human condition.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H444}}` consistently portrays a universal state of moral decay. The Psalms declare that all have "gone aside" and have "altogether **become filthy**" ([[Psalms 14:3]], [[Psalms 53:3]]). This is not an isolated condition but a comprehensive turning away from what is right. The book of Job expands on this by framing the state of being **filthy** as a consequence of humanity's nature, describing man as one who "drinketh iniquity like water" [[Job 15:16]]. In this context, to be filthy is to be morally abominable.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to define the context and meaning of `{{H444}}`:
* `{{H5493}}` **çûwr**: This word means **to turn off (literal or figurative)**. It describes the action that leads to the state of being filthy, as seen when all have "gone aside" from the path of righteousness [[Psalms 14:3]].
* `{{H8581}}` **taʻâb**: Meaning **to loathe, i.e. (morally) detest**, this word is used in parallel with `{{H444}}` to describe man as "abominable and **filthy**" [[Job 15:16]]. This highlights that the corruption is not merely a stain but a condition that is morally detestable.
* `{{H2896}}` **ṭôwb**: This term for **good** serves as a direct contrast to the state described by `{{H444}}`. After declaring that all have become filthy, the psalmist concludes that "there is none that doeth **good**, no, not one" ([[Psalms 14:3]], [[Psalms 53:3]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H444}}` is significant in understanding the biblical view of sin.
* **Universal Corruption:** The word is used to express a total and universal condition. Both Psalms 14 and 53 state that "all" or "every one" has become filthy, underscoring a pervasive state of human sinfulness.
* **Moral Filthiness:** While the word implies being unclean, its context is exclusively moral and spiritual. It is used to characterize humanity's rebellion and moral perversion, a condition that makes a person "abominable" [[Job 15:16]].
* **Apostasy and its Result:** The term is linked to the action of turning away or going back (`{{H5493}}`, `{{H5472}}`). Becoming filthy is the direct outcome of forsaking God's way, leaving none who do good [[Psalms 53:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H444}}` provides a stark and powerful image of moral impurity. Though used infrequently, **ʼâlach** is a critical term for illustrating the biblical concept of humanity's fallen state. It moves beyond a simple description of uncleanness to define a profound, universal condition of moral corruption that results from turning away from God and embracing iniquity.
TRV