### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻăgâbâh**, represented by `{{H5691}}`, defines a specific type of love characterized as **inordinate love** or amorousness. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in a single verse in the entire Bible. Its singular use provides a focused and powerful illustration of a corrupting and excessive passion, distinct from righteous or holy affection.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole instance of `{{H5691}}` is found in the prophetic book of Ezekiel. The verse describes the allegorical figure Aholibah, who **saw** `{{H7200}}` the idolatrous ways of her **sister** `{{H269}}` and, instead of learning from the error, became even "more **corrupt** `{{H7843}}` in her **inordinate love** `{{H5691}}`" [[Ezekiel 23:11]]. This context firmly associates the word with spiritual decay and an escalating desire for that which is forbidden, leading to greater **whoredoms** `{{H8457}}` than her counterpart.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{H5691}}` is clarified by the words used alongside it in its only appearance:
* `{{H7843}}` **shâchath**: A primitive root meaning to decay or ruin. Its use in [[Ezekiel 23:11]] shows that the "inordinate love" is not a neutral emotion but one that actively causes ruin and corruption.
* `{{H2183}}` **zânûwn**: This word for **whoredom** is used to describe the outcome of Aholibah's passion, linking her "inordinate love" directly to the figurative idolatry and adultery of pursuing foreign alliances over faithfulness to God [[Ezekiel 23:11]].
* `{{H269}}` **ʼâchôwth**: Meaning a **sister**, this term establishes the comparative nature of Aholibah's sin. Her corruption, driven by `{{H5691}}`, surpassed that of her sister, highlighting a deepening depravity.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H5691}}` is concentrated in its powerful, singular use:
* **Destructive Passion:** The term exclusively represents a love that is excessive and ruinous. It highlights the biblical theme that misdirected desire is not merely a weakness but a force that actively **corrupts** `{{H7843}}` a person or a nation.
* **Idolatry as Lust:** In the context of Ezekiel's allegory, **inordinate love** `{{H5691}}` is the engine of spiritual adultery. It portrays the pursuit of idols and unholy alliances not as a simple mistake, but as a passionate and lustful desire that replaces devotion to God.
* **The Escalation of Sin:** The term is used to show a progression of sin. Aholibah's sin was not an imitation but an escalation, demonstrating that unchecked passion can lead to a state even more debased than the one originally observed [[Ezekiel 23:11]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5691}}` **ʻăgâbâh** is a highly specific term for a destructive and corrupting passion. Though used only once, its context in [[Ezekiel 23:11]] gives it significant weight, framing it as the motivation behind spiritual unfaithfulness and escalating sin. It serves as a stark warning against inordinate desire, portraying it as a form of love that leads directly to ruin and idolatrous **whoredom**.
TRV