### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻăvîyl**, represented by `{{H5759}}`, refers to a **babe** or **young child**. It is derived from the root עוּל and is a very specific term. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, exclusively within the book of Job.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{H5759}}` appear in contrasting contexts within the book of Job. In one instance, it describes the joyful prosperity of the wicked, who "send forth their **little ones** like a flock" [[Job 21:11]]. Here, the word contributes to an image of flourishing family life. Conversely, in his own suffering, Job laments that even "**young children** despised me" [[Job 19:18]], illustrating the profound depth of his social rejection and humiliation.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of `{{H5759}}`:
* `{{H3206}}` **yeled** (child): This word for offspring appears in parallel with **ʻăvîyl** in the scene of prosperity, where the "little ones" are sent out and the "**children** dance" [[Job 21:11]], reinforcing the picture of a large and joyous family.
* `{{H3988}}` **mâʼaç** (despise): This word describes the action taken against Job by the **young children** [[Job 19:18]]. It signifies a deep scorn or rejection, and its use here highlights that Job's contempt came even from the most unexpected and seemingly innocent members of society.
### Theological Significance
The thematic weight of `{{H5759}}` is tied to its specific appearances in Job.
* **Innocence and Blessing:** In the context of the prosperous, **ʻăvîyl** represents a sign of blessing and carefree innocence, portrayed as lambs in a flock [[Job 21:11]].
* **Unexpected Scorn:** For Job, the word is a source of pain. The fact that **young children**—those expected to be innocent—are the ones who despise him underscores the totality of his affliction and abandonment [[Job 19:18]].
* **A Study in Contrast:** The word's dual usage within the same book showcases the extremes of human experience, where children can be a symbol of either life's greatest joys or its most cutting sorrows.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5759}}` is a rare term whose meaning is powerfully defined by its context. Though simply meaning a "young child," its two appearances in the book of Job place it at opposite ends of the emotional spectrum. It illustrates how the very same thing—a child—can be perceived as a blessing of prosperity or as an agent of profound humiliation, depending on one's circumstances.
TRV