### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻăval**, represented by `{{H5765}}`, is a primitive root used to describe moral distortion. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. The term’s core meaning is to **deal unjustly** or to be **unrighteous**, signifying a deliberate perversion of what is morally right.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H5765}}` describes an active and willful form of injustice. In Isaiah, it portrays the wicked person who, even when shown favor, refuses to learn righteousness and continues to **deal unjustly** in a land of uprightness [[Isaiah 26:10]]. The psalmist uses the term in a plea for rescue, asking God for deliverance from the hand of the **unrighteous** and cruel man [[Psalms 71:4]]. In both instances, the word characterizes a person who actively works against moral and divine standards.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help frame the concept of injustice by providing contrast and context:
* `{{H7563}}` **râshâʻ** (wicked): Defined as a morally wrong or actively bad person, this term identifies the agent who commits injustice. Both occurrences of `{{H5765}}` are directly linked to the **wicked** ([[Isaiah 26:10]], [[Psalms 71:4]]).
* `{{H6664}}` **tsedeq** (righteousness): As a direct antonym, this word means the right, equity, or justice. The one who deals unjustly `{{H5765}}` is specifically described as someone who will not learn **righteousness** [[Isaiah 26:10]].
* `{{H6403}}` **pâlaṭ** (deliver): Meaning to escape or cause to be delivered, this word represents the divine response to injustice. The psalmist cries out to God to **deliver** him from the unrighteous `{{H5765}}` man [[Psalms 71:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5765}}` is significant despite its rare usage. It highlights several key principles:
* **Willful Rejection of Goodness:** The act of dealing unjustly is portrayed not as a mistake, but as a conscious choice made even when grace is present. The wicked person deals unjustly in the "land of uprightness" and refuses to "behold the majesty of the LORD" [[Isaiah 26:10]].
* **Injustice as an Attribute:** The word is used to describe the character of a person, specifically the "wicked" `{{H7563}}`. It is not just an action but part of a nature that is morally distorted and cruel [[Psalms 71:4]].
* **The Catalyst for Divine Intervention:** The presence of the "unrighteous" `{{H5765}}` prompts a cry to God `{{H430}}` for deliverance. This establishes a biblical pattern where human injustice becomes the basis for seeking and expecting divine rescue.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5765}}` defines a profound moral distortion. Though appearing only twice, it powerfully illustrates the nature of one who is actively and willfully unrighteous. It stands in stark contrast to righteousness `{{H6664}}`, is a defining characteristic of the wicked `{{H7563}}`, and serves as the reason for the righteous to cry out to God for deliverance `{{H6403}}`. The word encapsulates a deliberate turning away from moral and divine order.
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