### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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