from עָלָה; properly, the top; specifically, the highest (i.e. God); also (adverb) aloft, to Jehovah; above, high, most High.
Transliteration:ʻal
Pronunciation:al
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word `{{H5920}}` (ʻal) is primarily known as a versatile preposition with a wide semantic range, encompassing meanings such as "upon," "over," "against," "concerning," and "because of." However, the given definition highlights a more fundamental and specific sense derived from its root `{{H5927}}` (ʻalah), meaning "to go up" or "ascend." This etymological connection reveals `{{H5920}}`'s core meaning as "the top" or "the highest." Its semantic range, therefore, extends beyond mere relational placement to denote elevation, supremacy, and that which is positioned "above." Crucially, the definition explicitly points to a theological application: "specifically, the highest (i.e. God)" and "to Jehovah," indicating its capacity to refer directly to the divine and a trajectory towards Him. It can function adverbially as "aloft," "above," or "high," consistently retaining this sense of elevated position or direction.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
While `{{H5920}}` is ubiquitous as a preposition throughout the Hebrew Bible, its specific occurrences as a noun or adverb denoting "the highest" or "aloft" carry profound implications. In these instances, `{{H5920}}` often points directly to the transcendent nature of God. Although `{{H5945}}` (ʻelyon) is the more common and explicit term for "Most High," the underlying concept is rooted in the idea conveyed by `{{H5920}}`. The definition's inclusion of "specifically, the highest (i.e. God)" suggests that in certain contexts, `{{H5920}}` itself can function as a direct appellation for the Almighty, emphasizing His supreme position and authority. For example, poetic and prophetic texts frequently describe God as dwelling "on high" or being exalted "above" all things. The adverbial use, such as "aloft" or "above," can describe physical elevation, but when applied to God, it speaks to His majestic transcendence and His rule over all creation. This usage underscores the theological truth that God is sovereign, dwelling in unapproachable light and power, far above all earthly realms and powers.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct lexical relationship for `{{H5920}}` is its root verb, `{{H5927}}` (ʻalah), "to go up," "ascend," or "offer up." This connection emphasizes the dynamic aspect of elevation inherent in `{{H5920}}`. Another crucial related term is `{{H5945}}` (ʻelyon), "Most High," which is a direct derivative of `{{H5927}}` and frequently used as a divine title (e.g., El ʻElyon, "God Most High"). The concepts of "height" and "exaltation" are also linked to other Hebrew words such as `{{H1361}}` (gabah), "to be high," and `{{H7225}}` (rosh), "head" or "top." The theological concepts intrinsically tied to `{{H5920}}` in this specialized sense include divine sovereignty, transcendence, and the absolute supremacy of God. It evokes the imagery of God's throne being "on high" and His ultimate dominion over all things, establishing His unique and unchallengeable position in the cosmos.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H5920}}`, particularly in its capacity to denote "the highest" or "to Jehovah," is foundational to understanding the nature of God in the Old Testament. It powerfully communicates God's absolute transcendence and His supreme position above all creation. When the text refers to God as "the Highest" or describes Him as being "aloft" or "above," it is a declaration of His unparalleled authority, His omnipotence, and His role as the ultimate source and sustainer of all existence. This understanding cultivates a profound sense of awe, reverence, and worship, reminding humanity of God's exalted status and His unapproachable holiness. Furthermore, the directional sense "to Jehovah" implies a necessary orientation of human life towards Him—in prayer, worship, and obedience—acknowledging Him as the ultimate good and the final destination of all spiritual striving. It reinforces the biblical truth that true elevation and ultimate blessedness are found in alignment with the Most High God.
### Summary
`{{H5920}}` (ʻal), though commonly a preposition, carries a profound core meaning of "the top" or "the highest," rooted in the verb "to go up." This fundamental sense is extended to designate God as the supreme, transcendent being, "the Highest" or "Most High." When used in this specialized capacity, `{{H5920}}` underscores God's absolute sovereignty, His exalted position above all creation, and His unchallengeable authority. It serves as a powerful descriptor of divine transcendence, inviting humanity to a posture of reverence and ascent towards the one true God. Its close relationship with `{{H5927}}` (ʻalah) and `{{H5945}}` (ʻelyon) solidifies its role in articulating the ultimate height and supremacy of the Almighty.
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