### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻălâṭâh**, represented by `{{H5939}}`, is a feminine noun from an unused root meaning to cover, and it signifies **dusk**, **dark**, or **twilight**. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible, consistently marking a period of deep shadow and transition from light into darkness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H5939}}` marks moments of profound significance. Its first appearance is during the establishment of God's covenant with Abram, where "when the sun went down, and it was **dark**, behold a smoking furnace, and a burning lamp that passed between those pieces" [[Genesis 15:17]]. The remaining occurrences are found in Ezekiel, where the word describes the setting for a prophetic sign-act. The prophet is commanded to bring his belongings out "in the **twilight**" to symbolize the coming exile, a furtive action performed under the cover of dusk ([[Ezekiel 12:6]], [[Ezekiel 12:7]], [[Ezekiel 12:12]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the time of day and the actions associated with `{{H5939}}`:
* `{{H6153}}` **ʻereb** (dusk): This word for **dusk** or evening is used in parallel with `{{H5939}}` in Ezekiel's prophecy, where he digs through a wall in the **even** before bringing his things forth in the **twilight** [[Ezekiel 12:7]].
* `{{H8121}}` **shemesh** (the sun): This word for **the sun** establishes the condition for darkness. The deep **dark** of `{{H5939}}` occurs only after the **sun** has gone down, as described in God's covenant with Abram [[Genesis 15:17]].
* `{{H935}}` **bôwʼ** (to go or come): This primitive root describes the action that precipitates the darkness in [[Genesis 15:17]], when the sun **went down**. It is a versatile verb indicating movement or arrival.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5939}}` is concentrated in its specific, dramatic contexts.
* **Solemn Divine Appointment:** The term is used to mark a moment of profound divine activity. The deep **dark** provides a solemn backdrop for God's presence, represented by the furnace and lamp, as He formalizes His covenant with Abram [[Genesis 15:17]].
* **Symbol of Exile and Judgment:** In Ezekiel's prophecy, performing an act "in the **twilight**" symbolizes the shameful and hidden nature of the impending exile. The prince of Israel is to depart "in the **twilight**," signifying a flight stripped of honor and visibility [[Ezekiel 12:12]].
* **Obscured Vision:** The state of **twilight** is explicitly linked to an inability to see. Ezekiel is commanded to cover his face "that thou see not the ground," connecting the physical dimness of `{{H5939}}` with a symbolic blindness to one's surroundings during judgment [[Ezekiel 12:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5939}}` is not merely a descriptor for a time of day but a potent term reserved for moments of critical spiritual importance. It frames the awesome mystery of God's covenant and the shame of a prophesied exile. Through its rare usage, **ʻălâṭâh** transforms the physical transition into dusk into a symbol of divine solemnity, judgment, and the obscuring of sight.
TRV