The Hebrew word ʻâlêz, represented by H5938, serves as a term for exultant; that rejoiceth. It appears only 1 time across 1 unique verse in the Bible, signifying its highly specific and potent application within a context of divine judgment.
In its sole biblical appearance, H5938 is used to identify one of the groups destined for destruction. The passage describes how hell, or Sheol, has enlarged itself to swallow those whose lives are marked by worldly pride. In this context, "he that rejoiceth" is listed alongside "their glory" and "their pomp" as those who will descend into the pit, highlighting a type of celebration that is condemned Isaiah 5:14.
Several related words from its context clarify the nature of this condemned rejoicing:
- H7585 shᵉʼôwl (Hades or the world of the dead... grave, hell, pit): This is the destination for "he that rejoiceth." It is described as a place where there is no work, knowledge, or wisdom, reinforcing the finality of the judgment Ecclesiastes 9:10.
- H1926 hâdâr (magnificence... splendor; beauty... glory... honour, majesty): This word describes the "glory" that accompanies the proud into Sheol. In other contexts, it is associated with majesty and honor, but here it is an object of judgment Isaiah 5:14.
- H7588 shâʼôwn (uproar... destruction... noise, pomp, rushing, tumult): This term, translated as "pomp" in Isaiah 5:14, connects the rejoicing to a loud, tumultuous, and ultimately destructive lifestyle. It is also used to describe the "rushing" of nations destined for rebuke Isaiah 17:12.
The theological weight of H5938 is entirely defined by its stark, singular context of judgment.
- Warning Against Worldly Rejoicing: The word's usage serves as a solemn warning. "He that rejoiceth" is not celebrating God, but is part of a group defined by earthly "glory" and "pomp" that faces divine wrath Isaiah 5:14.
- Pride Before Destruction: The rejoicing of H5938 is explicitly linked with prideful displays that are brought down into H7585 Sheol. This illustrates a key biblical theme of pride preceding a fall.
- The Nature of Condemnation: Its inclusion with glory, multitude, and pomp suggests that the judgment described is comprehensive, consuming not just the people but the very sources of their arrogant celebration.
In summary, H5938 is a uniquely focused term. Its single appearance in scripture prevents it from being understood as general joy. Instead, it is a technical term for the arrogant exultation of those who live for their own "glory" H1926 and "pomp" H7588. It powerfully illustrates how an act like rejoicing can be subject to severe judgment when its object is worldly pride rather than divine honor.
TRV