### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **ʻălâh**, represented by `{{H5928}}`, corresponds to the term for a **burnt offering** or holocaust. It is a rare word, appearing just **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{H5928}}` is found within a royal decree concerning the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem. The decree commands that resources be provided for the priests, specifically mentioning "young bullocks, and rams, and lambs, for the **burnt offerings** of the God of heaven" [[Ezra 6:9]]. This highlights its use in an official, administrative context related to the proper execution of sacrificial worship.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words appear alongside `{{H5928}}` that define the components of the offering:
* `{{H8450}}` **tôwr** (a bull; bullock, ox): This term specifies one of the primary animals designated for sacrifice. It appears in the list of provisions for the **burnt offerings** [[Ezra 6:9]] and for the dedication of the house of God [[Ezra 6:17]].
* `{{H1798}}` **dᵉkar** (a male, i.e. of sheep; ram): This word identifies another animal required for the offering. Rams are listed as necessary purchases for sacrifice on the altar [[Ezra 7:17]].
* `{{H563}}` **ʼimmar** (a lamb): This term completes the list of specified animals for the **burnt offerings** in the decree [[Ezra 6:9]].
* `{{H426}}` **ʼĕlâhh** (God; God, god): This word identifies the recipient of the **burnt offerings**. The offerings are explicitly for "the **God** of heaven" [[Ezra 6:9]], emphasizing the divine focus of the sacrifice.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H5928}}` is tied directly to its specific context:
* **Restoration of Worship:** Its use in [[Ezra 6:9]] is central to the theme of restoring proper worship in Jerusalem. The provision for **burnt offerings** signifies a return to the prescribed sacrificial system.
* **Divine Provision through Human Authority:** The word appears in a decree from a secular authority, mandating that resources be supplied for offerings to the "God of heaven" [[Ezra 6:9]]. This illustrates God working through earthly powers to ensure His worship continues.
* **Specificity in Sacrifice:** The context explicitly lists the required animals—bullocks, rams, and lambs—for the **burnt offerings**, reinforcing the principle that worship and sacrifice follow a divine pattern and are not arbitrary acts [[Ezra 6:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5928}}` **ʻălâh** is a precise Aramaic term for a **burnt offering**. Though it appears only once, its context in the book of Ezra is significant, tying it to the re-establishment of the temple sacrificial system. It underscores the importance of having the specific, material provisions necessary to perform the sacred rites dedicated to the God of heaven.
TRV