### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻalvâh**, represented by `{{H5932}}`, is a term for **moral perverseness** or **iniquity**. This word appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, indicating a very specific contextual use.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H5932}}` is in the book of Hosea. The prophet rebukes Israel for its long-standing corruption, stating they have sinned from the "days of Gibeah." In this context, the term "children of **iniquity**" is used to describe those characterized by this profound moral perverseness, against whom a battle was fought [[Hosea 10:9]]. The word pinpoints a deep-seated corruption that defines a group of people.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H5932}}` in [[Hosea 10:9]] is clarified by the surrounding words:
* `{{H2398}}` **châṭâʼ** (to sin): Defined as properly "to miss," this primitive root is used to describe Israel's foundational offense which began in the days of Gibeah [[Hosea 10:9]].
* `{{H5975}}` **ʻâmad** (to stand): This term, meaning to stand or remain, describes the posture of the people in their rebellion, indicating they persisted in that state [[Hosea 10:9]].
* `{{H4421}}` **milchâmâh** (battle): This word refers to the engagement or warfare that arose as a consequence of the sin at Gibeah [[Hosea 10:9]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (children): Used here as "children of iniquity," it describes a people defined by their figurative relationship to moral perverseness, as if it were their parentage [[Hosea 10:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5932}}` is significant despite its single use.
* **Defining a People by Sin:** The phrase "children of **iniquity**" is a powerful theological statement. It suggests that sin is not merely an action but can become a defining identity, a form of lineage.
* **Historical Precedent of Perverseness:** By linking Israel's condition to the "days of Gibeah," the use of `{{H5932}}` establishes a historical pattern of deep-seated moral failure, emphasizing that the nation's corruption is a recurring problem [[Hosea 10:9]].
* **The Cause for Conflict:** This **iniquity** is presented as the direct reason for **battle** `{{H4421}}`. It frames moral perverseness as a condition that provokes judgment and conflict.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5932}}` **ʻalvâh** is a potent and narrowly used term for **iniquity**. Its single use in scripture serves to diagnose a profound and generational moral perverseness within Israel, tying their sins back to a foundational failure at Gibeah. It portrays sin not just as an act, but as an identity—the "children of **iniquity**"—that stands in defiance and invites conflict.
TRV