or עַליָה; the same as עַלְוָה; Alvah or Aljah, an Idumaean; Aliah, Alvah.
Transliteration:ʻAlvâh
Pronunciation:al-vaw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term H5933 (עַלְוָה, *ʻAlvâh*) is a proper noun, specifically a personal name. As such, it does not possess a broad semantic range in the way common nouns or verbs do. Its core meaning is simply the identity of the individual it designates. The Strong's definition identifies it as "Alvah" or "Aljah," an Idumaean chief or duke. The alternative spelling עַליָה (*ʻAlyah*) is noted, indicating a slight orthographic variation for the same individual. The significance of such a proper noun lies in its referential function, pointing to a specific historical figure within the biblical genealogies. Unlike common words that carry conceptual weight, H5933 serves primarily as a unique identifier for a descendant of Esau, establishing a lineage within the Edomite nation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name H5933 (Alvah) appears twice in the Hebrew Bible, both times within the genealogical records of Esau and his descendants, the Edomites:
* **[[Genesis 36:40]]**: "These are the names of the chiefs of Esau, according to their families, according to their places, by their names: chief Timna, chief Alvah, chief Jetheth." Here, Alvah is listed as one of the "chiefs" (אַלּוּף, `{{H441}}`) of Edom, specifically mentioned among those who emerged "after their clans, by their places, by their names." This verse is part of a comprehensive list detailing the lineage and leadership structure of Edom, emphasizing the fulfillment of God's promise regarding Esau's numerous descendants.
* **[[1 Chronicles 1:51]]**: "The chiefs of Edom were: chief Timna, chief Alvah, chief Jetheth." This verse in 1 Chronicles is a parallel account to [[Genesis 36:40]], reiterating the list of Edomite chiefs. The Chronicler's inclusion of these genealogies underscores the historical continuity and the meticulous preservation of lineage records, even for nations outside the direct covenant line of Israel. The repetition confirms Alvah's status as a recognized leader within the Edomite tribal structure.
In both contexts, Alvah is presented as a significant figure within the Edomite hierarchy, holding the title of "chief" or "duke." These occurrences are purely genealogical, providing no narrative details about Alvah's life or actions beyond his name and title. His inclusion serves to complete the historical record of Esau's progeny, demonstrating the rise of a distinct nation from his descendants.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given that H5933 is a proper noun, its "related words" are primarily contextual rather than etymological or semantic in the typical sense.
* **`{{H441}}` (אַלּוּף, *’alluph*)**: This is the Hebrew word for "chief" or "duke," the title attributed to Alvah. This term denotes a tribal leader or head of a clan, particularly prominent in the description of Edomite society ([[Genesis 36]]). Understanding this title helps contextualize Alvah's role.
* **Edomite Genealogies**: The broader literary context for H5933 is the detailed genealogies of Esau's descendants found in [[Genesis 36]] and [[1 Chronicles 1]]. These lists include other Edomite chiefs and kings, such as Timna, Jetheth, Omar, Kenaz, Teman, Mibzar, Magdiel, and Iram. The study of these names collectively illuminates the structure and development of the Edomite nation.
* **Esau (`{{H6215}}` עֵשָׂו, *‘Esav*)**: As a descendant of Esau, Alvah's existence is directly tied to the promises and prophecies concerning Esau's progeny, who were destined to become a great nation alongside Jacob's descendants ([[Genesis 36:1]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of H5933 (Alvah), though not directly tied to a specific act or teaching, is embedded within the broader biblical narrative concerning God's sovereignty over all nations and His faithfulness to His promises.
* **Fulfillment of Divine Promise**: The detailed listing of Esau's descendants, including chiefs like Alvah, demonstrates the fulfillment of God's promise to Esau that he too would become a "great nation" ([[Genesis 36:1-19]] compared with [[Genesis 17:6]] to Abraham and [[Genesis 25:23]] to Rebekah concerning the two nations from her womb). This underscores God's meticulous attention to His word, even concerning those outside the direct covenant line of Israel.
* **Historical Authenticity and Divine Record-Keeping**: The inclusion of such specific, seemingly minor figures in the biblical record attests to the historical verifiability of the biblical accounts. It highlights the Bible's commitment to accurate genealogical and historical documentation, reflecting a divine perspective that values the lineage and identity of all peoples.
* **Distinction of Nations**: The genealogies of Edom, including Alvah, serve to distinguish the Edomite nation from Israel. While both descended from Abraham through Isaac, their paths diverged, fulfilling the prophecy that "two nations are in your womb" ([[Genesis 25:23]]). This distinction is crucial for understanding the subsequent interactions, conflicts, and unique destinies of these two related peoples in salvation history.
### Summary
H5933 (עַלְוָה, *ʻAlvâh*) is a proper noun identifying Alvah, an Edomite chief or duke. This name appears twice in the Hebrew Bible, in [[Genesis 36:40]] and [[1 Chronicles 1:51]], both times within the comprehensive genealogies of Esau's descendants. As a proper noun, its "meaning" is its referent – a specific historical figure. Its significance lies not in a semantic range but in its contextual role as a leader (`{{H441}}`) within the emerging Edomite nation. Theologically, Alvah's inclusion in the biblical record underscores God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises concerning Esau's progeny, the meticulous nature of divine record-keeping, and the divinely ordained distinction between the nations of Israel and Edom. While a minor figure in terms of narrative, Alvah's presence contributes to the rich tapestry of biblical history, affirming the historical reality and divine oversight of all nations.
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