passive participle of עָלַם in the denominative sense of עֶלֶם; (only in plural as abstract) adolescence; figuratively, vigor; youth.
Transliteration:ʻâlûwm
Pronunciation:aw-loom'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma עָלוּם (`{{H5934}}`, transliterated as ʻâlûwm) is a fascinating term, primarily understood as a passive participle derived from the root עָלַם (`{{H5956}}`), meaning "to hide" or "to conceal." It is further linked to the denominative sense of עֶלֶם (`{{H5959}}`), which refers to a "young man" or "youth." As an abstract noun, עָלוּם (`{{H5934}}`) is defined as "adolescence," "youth," and, figuratively, "vigor."
The semantic range thus encompasses a period of life—youth or adolescence—and the inherent strength or vitality associated with it. The connection to the root "to hide" suggests a nuance: perhaps a time of life where one's full potential is not yet revealed, or where strength is latent and developing. It could also imply a period that is "hidden" from the full responsibilities of adulthood, a time of formation and growth that is not yet fully manifest to the world. The figurative meaning of "vigor" underscores this latent power, a robust energy characteristic of early life.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
It is a notable characteristic of עָלוּם (`{{H5934}}`) that, despite its inclusion in lexicons like Strong's, it does not appear in the extant Masoretic Text of the Hebrew Bible. Its presence in such lexical tools is typically based on etymological reconstruction or its strong derivation from established biblical roots and related nouns. Therefore, a direct contextual analysis of its usage within specific biblical passages is not possible.
However, the semantic field that עָלוּם (`{{H5934}}`) would occupy, had it been present, is clearly understood from its definition: a period of early life marked by growth, development, and latent strength. The Bible frequently addresses the concept of youth, though it employs other, more common terms such as נְעוּרִים (`{{H5271}}`), which denotes "youth" or "early life" (e.g., [[Leviticus 22:13]], [[Psalm 88:15]], [[Proverbs 5:18]]). Had עָלוּם (`{{H5934}}`) been used, it would likely have conveyed a similar sense, possibly with an added emphasis on the "hidden" or developing aspect of that life stage, or the inherent "vigor" that is not yet fully expressed.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of עָלוּם (`{{H5934}}`) is enriched by examining its etymological connections and synonymous terms:
* **עָלַם (`{{H5956}}`):** The root verb "to hide, conceal." This foundational meaning suggests that עָלוּם (`{{H5934}}`) might imply a period of life where one's character, destiny, or full capabilities are still "hidden" or in the process of formation. It could also point to the unseen, internal development that occurs during youth.
* **עֶלֶם (`{{H5959}}`):** "Young man," "youth." This noun is the direct denominative link, reinforcing the primary meaning of a youthful stage of life.
* **עַלְמָה (`{{H5959}}`):** "Young woman," "maiden." While often discussed in relation to the "virgin" concept, its core meaning is a young, marriageable woman, again emphasizing the youthful period.
* **נְעוּרִים (`{{H5271}}`):** The most prevalent Hebrew term for "youth" or "early life" in the biblical text. Examples include [[Psalm 88:15]], where it refers to suffering from youth, and [[Ecclesiastes 11:9]], which speaks to the days of youth. This word often carries connotations of immaturity, but also potential and the formative years.
* **Concepts of Vigor and Strength:** The figurative meaning of "vigor" for עָלוּם (`{{H5934}}`) aligns with biblical themes of strength, particularly as divinely bestowed (e.g., [[Isaiah 40:30-31]]). Youth is often portrayed as a time of natural strength and energy, which, if directed righteously, can be a powerful force for God's purposes.
### Theological Significance
Although עָלוּם (`{{H5934}}`) does not appear in the biblical text, its defined meaning allows for profound theological reflection on the period of youth and the concept of vigor.
1. **The Hiddenness of Formation:** The root עָלַם (`{{H5956}}`, "to hide") suggests that the period of youth is a time of profound, often unseen, spiritual and personal formation. God works in ways that are not always immediately evident, shaping individuals from their earliest days. This "hidden" aspect of youth can be seen as a sacred time of divine preparation and growth, where foundations are laid for future character and service.
2. **Potential and Vigor as Divine Gifts:** The concept of "vigor" inherent in עָלוּם (`{{H5934}}`) points to the natural strength, energy, and potential present in youth. From a theological perspective, this vigor is a gift from God, intended to be stewarded wisely. Biblical wisdom literature frequently exhorts the young to remember their Creator in the days of their youth (e.g., [[Ecclesiastes 12:1]]), implying that this period of strength is a prime opportunity for dedication and service to the Lord.
3. **Youth as a Time of Choice and Responsibility:** While עָלוּם (`{{H5934}}`) emphasizes potential, the broader biblical narrative of youth highlights it as a crucial period for making life-defining choices. Figures like Samuel ([[1 Samuel 2:26]]) and David ([[1 Samuel 17]]) demonstrate that God can use individuals powerfully even in their youth, provided they are faithful. The theological implication is that the vigor of youth is not merely for self-indulgence but for purposeful living in accordance with God's will.
### Summary
The Hebrew lemma עָלוּם (`{{H5934}}`) derives from the root עָלַם (`{{H5956}}`, "to hide") and is closely related to עֶלֶם (`{{H5959}}`, "young man"). Defined as "adolescence," "youth," and "vigor," it encapsulates a period of early life characterized by developing strength and potential. While עָלוּם (`{{H5934}}`) itself does not appear in the Masoretic Text, its lexical presence guides us to consider the profound theological significance of youth. This includes the unseen, formative work of God during one's early years, the divine gift of youthful vigor to be consecrated for righteous purposes, and the critical period of choice and responsibility that youth represents in the biblical narrative. The concept implicit in עָלוּם (`{{H5934}}`) thus enriches our understanding of God's sovereign hand in shaping individuals from their hidden beginnings into mature expressions of His glory.
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