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.
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.
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.
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.
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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