### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term H5759 (עֲוִיל) (ʻăvîyl) is derived from the root עוּל (ʻûl), which conveys the sense of "to suckle" or "to be a child." Consequently, H5759 fundamentally denotes a "babe," a "young child," or a "little one." Its semantic range is narrow, specifically referring to an infant or a very young child, emphasizing their nascent stage of life, complete dependence, and inherent vulnerability. The term evokes images of innocence and helplessness, characteristic of early childhood.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word H5759 (עֲוִיל) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, making its sole occurrence particularly poignant and impactful.
* **[[Job 24:9]]**: "Some snatch the orphan from the breast, and they seize as security the child of the poor."
In this passage, Job laments the pervasive injustice in the world, describing the wicked who exploit the most defenseless. The *ʻăvîyl* is presented as the "child of the poor," specifically an infant still at the breast. The act of "snatching" such a child from its mother underscores the extreme cruelty and lack of humanity displayed by the oppressors. This image powerfully conveys the utter vulnerability of the infant, who is entirely dependent on its mother's care and the protection of society, yet is subjected to exploitation. The use of H5759 here highlights the depth of depravity of those who would victimize the most helpless, contrasting sharply with the divine standard of justice and compassion.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for H5759 (עֲוִיל) is its root, עוּל (ʻûl), which is directly associated with suckling and infancy.
* `{{H5763}}` (ʻôl): This related noun also means "suckling" or "infant," further solidifying the connection to early childhood and dependence.
Other general terms for "child" or "youth" in Hebrew, while broader in scope, provide semantic context for the age group represented by *ʻăvîyl*:
* `{{H3206}}` (yeled): A more general term for "child" or "boy," which can refer to children of various ages.
* `{{H5288}}` (naʻar): Typically denotes a "youth" or "lad," generally older than an *ʻăvîyl*.
* `{{H1121}}` (ben): The most common term for "son" or "child," referring to offspring in general.
The concept of the *ʻăvîyl* is intrinsically linked to themes of extreme vulnerability, innocence, and complete dependence. It also evokes societal concepts of justice, compassion, and the protection of the marginalized.
### Theological Significance
The singular yet powerful appearance of H5759 (עֲוִיל) in [[Job 24:9]] carries significant theological weight. It serves as a stark depiction of the most defenseless members of society, highlighting the profound evil of those who would exploit them. Theologically, God's character is consistently portrayed as one who champions the cause of the vulnerable – the orphan, the widow, and the sojourner. The *ʻăvîyl* embodies the absolute extreme of this vulnerability. The heinous act of snatching such a child from the breast is presented as a profound affront to divine order and justice. It underscores God's righteous indignation against oppression and His unwavering commitment to protecting the weak. The passage implicitly reinforces the sanctity of life, even at its most nascent and dependent stage, and condemns any act that violates the inherent dignity of such a life. It calls believers to reflect on their own responsibility to advocate for and protect those who cannot protect themselves, mirroring God's own compassionate character.
### Summary
H5759 (עֲוִיל) is a Hebrew term meaning "babe" or "young child," specifically denoting an infant, emphasizing extreme youth, vulnerability, and dependence. Its sole biblical occurrence in [[Job 24:9]] powerfully illustrates the depths of human depravity when the wicked exploit the most helpless members of society—the suckling child of the poor. Theologically, this term underscores God's profound concern for the defenseless and His condemnation of those who perpetrate injustice against the most vulnerable. It serves as a potent reminder of the sanctity of life from its earliest stages and the divine call to compassion and protection for the marginalized.
TRV