The Hebrew word ʻavvâl, represented by H5767, is an intensive term for a person who is morally evil. Based on its root, it denotes one who is unjust, unrighteous, or wicked. It appears 5 times across 5 unique verses, making it a specific and potent descriptor for profound moral corruption.
In its biblical usage, H5767 consistently describes a person who stands in direct opposition to God and righteousness. The word is used to contrast the character of the wicked with the Lord, stating that the "just LORD... will not do iniquity," but the unjust H5767 "knoweth no shame" Zephaniah 3:5. This state of wickedness is linked to a lack of relationship with God, as the dwellings of the wicked H5767 are for one who "knoweth not God" Job 18:21. The term also identifies the target of divine judgment, with Job asking, "Is not destruction to the wicked H5767?" Job 31:3. It can define an adversary, as when Job wishes for his enemy to be "as the unrighteous" H5767 Job 27:7.
Several related words provide a broader context for the concept of evil and unrighteousness:
- H5766 ʻevel ((moral) evil; iniquity, perverseness, unjust(-ly), unrighteousness(-ly); wicked(-ness)): This is the root word from which H5767 is derived, signifying the quality of iniquity itself. Scripture states there is "no iniquity" with God 2 Chronicles 19:7.
- H7563 râshâʻ (morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person; wicked (man)): This term is often used in parallel with H5767 to describe an evildoer. In Job 27:7, an enemy is compared to both the wicked H7563 and the unrighteous H5767.
- H205 ʼâven (nothingness; also trouble. vanity, wickedness; specifically an idol; iniquity): This word describes the actions or deeds of the wicked. Those identified as H5767 are described as "workers of iniquity" Job 31:3.
- H6662 tsaddîyq (just; lawful, righteous (man)): This serves as a direct antonym to H5767. It is used to describe the Lord in contrast to the unjust man Zephaniah 3:5 and a person who is upheld by God Psalms 37:17.
The theological weight of H5767 is significant, highlighting a clear moral and spiritual divide.
- Opposition to God's Nature: The term defines a person who is the antithesis of God's character. While the Lord is just, the unjust H5767 operates without shame and in ignorance of God (Zephaniah 3:5, Job 18:21).
- Active Hostility: Being wicked H5767 is not a passive state but involves active antagonism. Job speaks of breaking the "jaws of the wicked" Job 29:17, implying they are a source of harm that must be neutralized.
- Subject of Judgment: The scriptures link the identity of the wicked H5767 directly to a fate of destruction and punishment from God Job 31:3.
In summary, H5767 ʻavvâl is a focused and intense term for a wicked individual. Though used sparingly, it powerfully portrays a character defined by moral evil, active opposition to God's justice, and a destiny of divine judgment. The word serves as a stark reminder of the biblical distinction between righteousness and the profound corruption of one who is unrighteous.
TRV