feminine from עוּף; obscurity (as if from covering); darkness.
Transliteration:ʻêyphâh
Pronunciation:ay-faw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word עֵיפָה (ʻêyphâh, `{{H5890}}`) is a feminine noun derived from the root עוּף (ʻûph, `{{H5774}}`), which primarily means "to fly," but also carries the sense of "to cover," "to grow dark," or "to obscure." This etymological connection is crucial for understanding עֵיפָה. Its base definition, "obscurity (as if from covering); darkness," points to a state of dimness or gloom that results from something being covered or overshadowed. It is not merely the absence of light, but rather a condition where light is hindered or veiled, leading to a sense of heaviness or oppression. The word implies a deep, pervasive gloom, a state of being obscured from clarity or divine favor.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Remarkably, עֵיפָה (ʻêyphâh, `{{H5890}}`) appears only once in the entire Hebrew Bible, in [[Isaiah 9:1]] (often [[Isaiah 8:23]] in Hebrew Bibles due to chapter division differences). This singular occurrence lends it particular weight and significance within its specific prophetic context:
* [[Isaiah 9:1]]: "Nevertheless, the gloom [וְלֹא מֻעָף, but not עֵיפָה] will not be upon her who was in anguish. In the former time he brought into contempt the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the latter time he will make glorious the way of the sea, the land beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles."
In this verse, עֵיפָה is translated as "gloom" or "darkness." The context is critical: Isaiah is describing the severe distress and spiritual darkness that had fallen upon the northern tribes of Israel, specifically Zebulun and Naphtali, who were among the first to be invaded and exiled by the Assyrians. This עֵיפָה represents their anguish, their contemptible state, and their spiritual blindness. However, the verse immediately pivots from this state of profound darkness to a glorious promise: "but in the latter time he will make glorious... Galilee of the Gentiles." The "gloom" is explicitly stated as *not* being permanent (לֹא מֻעָף). This sets the stage for the subsequent prophecy of a "great light" (אוֹר גָּדוֹל) shining on those who walked in חֹשֶׁךְ (darkness, `{{H2822}}`), referring to the coming of the Messiah. Thus, עֵיפָה serves as the dramatic backdrop against which God's redemptive light is powerfully contrasted.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the root עוּף (ʻûph, `{{H5774}}`), from which עֵיפָה is derived. While עוּף commonly denotes "to fly," its secondary meanings of "to grow dark" or "to obscure" directly inform the noun עֵיפָה. This suggests a darkness that "descends" or "covers" like a shroud.
Other Hebrew words for "darkness" carry distinct nuances:
* חֹשֶׁךְ (ḥōšeḵ, `{{H2822}}`): The most common and general term for darkness, often literal (e.g., [[Genesis 1:2]]) but also metaphorical for evil, ignorance, or judgment.
* אֲפֵלָה (ʾăp̄ēlâ, `{{H653}}`): Denotes a deeper, thicker, or more terrifying darkness, often associated with divine judgment or a sense of dread (e.g., [[Exodus 10:22]], [[Deuteronomy 5:23]]).
* צַלְמָוֶת (ṣalmāweṯ, `{{H6757}}`): Literally "shadow of death," signifying the deepest, most oppressive darkness, often associated with the grave, despair, or extreme danger (e.g., [[Psalm 23:4]], [[Job 3:5]]).
While עֵיפָה shares the semantic field of "darkness" with these words, its unique derivation from עוּף emphasizes the aspect of being *covered* or *overwhelmed* by gloom. Its singular, highly significant appearance in Isaiah's prophecy gives it a specific prophetic resonance, linking the state of national distress directly to the promise of messianic light.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of עֵיפָה (ʻêyphâh, `{{H5890}}`) in [[Isaiah 9:1]] is profoundly significant for understanding God's redemptive plan.
1. **The Depth of Human Condition:** עֵיפָה depicts a state of profound spiritual and existential distress. It represents the consequences of sin, idolatry, and divine judgment, leading to a condition of "gloom" and "anguish." This state is not merely a physical darkness but a spiritual obscurity that blinds people to God's truth and presence.
2. **Divine Sovereignty and Hope:** Crucially, the text states that this עֵיפָה "will not be upon her." This declaration is a powerful testament to God's sovereignty over even the deepest darkness. It signifies that the state of despair is not permanent; God has a plan to intervene and transform the gloom.
3. **Foreshadowing the Messiah:** [[Isaiah 9:1]] is a pivotal messianic prophecy. The עֵיפָה serves as the necessary dark canvas against which the "great light" of the Messiah is to shine. The New Testament explicitly links Jesus' ministry in Galilee to this prophecy (e.g., [[Matthew 4:15-16]]), demonstrating that He is the fulfillment of Isaiah's promise, bringing light to those dwelling in the עֵיפָה of sin and death.
4. **Contrast and Transformation:** The word establishes a dramatic contrast between the existing state of oppressive darkness and the future glory brought by God's intervention. It underscores the radical nature of salvation, where God transforms עֵיפָה into light, anguish into glory, and contempt into honor.
### Summary
עֵיפָה (ʻêyphâh, `{{H5890}}`) is a rare but potent Hebrew word, appearing only once in [[Isaiah 9:1]]. Derived from the root עוּף (to cover, to grow dark), its core meaning is "obscurity" or "darkness," specifically implying a state of being overwhelmed or covered by gloom. In its sole biblical context, עֵיפָה vividly describes the profound distress and spiritual darkness that had fallen upon the northern tribes of Israel. Theologically, עֵיפָה serves as a dramatic backdrop against which God's redemptive power and the coming of the Messiah are highlighted. It signifies a temporary state of judgment and despair that is decisively overcome by divine light and glory, offering profound hope for those in spiritual or physical עֵיפָה.
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