(Aramaic) corresponding to עֹלָה; a holocaust; burnt offering.
Transliteration:ʻălâh
Pronunciation:al-law'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic term H5928, transliterated as ʻălâh, denotes a "burnt offering" or "holocaust." Its core meaning is intrinsically linked to its Hebrew counterpart, H5930 (ʻōlāh), signifying an offering that "goes up" (from the root עלה, meaning "to ascend"). This "going up" refers to the smoke of the sacrifice ascending to God, implying acceptance and propitiation. The defining characteristic of the ʻălâh is its complete consumption by fire on the altar, leaving nothing for human consumption. This signifies a total dedication and surrender to God, a "whole burnt offering" or "holocaust" in the truest sense. The semantic range is therefore quite narrow and specific, focusing exclusively on this particular type of sacrifice.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
As an Aramaic word, H5928 appears exclusively in the Aramaic portions of the Old Testament, specifically within the book of Ezra. Its occurrences highlight the continuity of Israelite worship practices, even under foreign imperial rule.
* In [[Ezra 6:3]], the decree of King Cyrus concerning the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem specifies that "the expenses are to be paid from the royal treasury, so that they may offer burnt offerings." Here, the ʻălâh is explicitly linked to the re-establishment of proper worship at the newly rebuilt temple. The provision for these offerings by the Persian king underscores divine providence in enabling the restoration of Israel's covenant life.
* Similarly, [[Ezra 7:17]] records King Artaxerxes' decree, which allocates resources for "burnt offerings, grain offerings, and drink offerings." This verse again places the ʻălâh within the context of essential temple rituals, emphasizing its foundational role alongside other sacrificial types. The context in Ezra demonstrates that despite the exile and the shift in political landscape, the sacrificial system, with the burnt offering at its core, remained central to the people of God's relationship with Yahweh.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word is the Hebrew H5930 (ʻōlāh), which H5928 directly corresponds to and functions identically. Understanding H5930 is crucial for grasping the full theological weight of H5928. Both terms derive from the root עלה ("to go up, ascend"), emphasizing the upward movement of the sacrifice.
Other related concepts and types of offerings that often appear alongside the ʻălâh include:
* H2077 (zebach): A general term for "sacrifice," often referring to peace offerings.
* H4503 (minchah): The "grain offering," typically offered with the burnt offering.
* H5081 (nesek): The "drink offering," also often accompanying other sacrifices.
The ʻălâh stands distinct from these in its complete consumption, signifying a unique dedication. The concept of "atonement" is also closely related, as the burnt offering served as a general covering for sin and a means of making the worshiper acceptable before God, even if not for specific transgressions like the sin offering.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of H5928 mirrors that of its Hebrew counterpart, H5930. It embodies several profound truths:
1. **Total Dedication and Surrender:** The complete consumption of the ʻălâh signifies an unreserved offering of the worshiper to God. Nothing is held back; the entire sacrifice ascends to the divine presence. This speaks to a life of absolute devotion and obedience.
2. **General Atonement and Acceptance:** While not primarily a sin offering for specific transgressions, the ʻălâh served as a means of general atonement, making the worshiper acceptable before God. It was an act of propitiation, demonstrating a desire for reconciliation and fellowship.
3. **Worship and Adoration:** The ʻălâh was fundamentally an act of worship, an expression of reverence, gratitude, and adoration towards God. It was a primary means of approaching the holy God.
4. **Divine Provision and Sovereignty:** In the context of Ezra, the provision of resources for these offerings by pagan kings highlights God's sovereign control over nations and His faithfulness in enabling His people to worship, even in difficult circumstances. It underscores that true worship is not dependent solely on human means but on divine enablement.
5. **Continuity of Covenant:** The use of H5928 in Aramaic texts underscores the unwavering commitment to the Mosaic sacrificial system and the covenant relationship with Yahweh, even as the linguistic and political landscape shifted. It demonstrates the enduring nature of God's covenant with Israel.
### Summary
H5928 (ʻălâh) is the Aramaic term for "burnt offering," directly corresponding to the Hebrew H5930 (ʻōlāh). It refers to a sacrifice entirely consumed by fire, symbolizing complete dedication and ascent to God. Its occurrences in Ezra highlight the continuity of Israelite worship and the importance of the sacrificial system in the post-exilic period. Theologically, the ʻălâh signifies total surrender, general atonement, profound worship, and God's sovereign provision for His people's spiritual needs, underscoring the enduring nature of the covenant.
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