### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻillîy**, represented by `{{H5942}}`, is a comparative term meaning **high** or **upper**. It appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, making its usage very specific. Derived from a root word meaning "high," its primary function is to distinguish something as being in a higher position relative to something else.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Both occurrences of `{{H5942}}` are found in the same narrative, recounting a request for water. Having been given a **south** `{{H5045}}` **land** `{{H776}}`, a woman asks for a **blessing** `{{H1293}}` of **springs** `{{H1543}}` of **water** `{{H4325}}`. In response, she is given "the **upper** springs, and the nether springs" [[Joshua 15:19]]. This event is restated in Judges, where **Caleb** `{{H3612}}` gave her the **upper** springs and the nether `{{H8482}}` springs [[Judges 1:15]]. The word is used here in a literal, geographical sense to describe the location of the gifted water sources.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the meaning of `ʻillîy`:
* `{{H8482}}` **tachtîy** (lowermost): This word is the direct counterpart to `ʻillîy` in both of its appearances. It establishes a clear contrast between the "**upper**" and "**nether**" springs, emphasizing the completeness of the gift ([[Joshua 15:19]], [[Judges 1:15]]).
* `{{H1543}}` **gullâh** (springs): This is the noun that `ʻillîy` modifies. Defined as a fountain or bowl, it refers to the water sources that were so vital. The distinction between **upper** and nether **springs** `{{H1543}}` highlights the value of this resource [[Joshua 15:19]].
* `{{H5045}}` **negeb** (south): This term provides the critical context for the request. The land given was a **south** land, a region known for being parched. This explains the need for both **upper** `{{H5942}}` and nether water springs [[Judges 1:15]].
### Theological Significance
While not a major theological term, the use of `{{H5942}}` illustrates several important principles:
* **Generous Provision:** The granting of both **upper** `{{H5942}}` and nether `{{H8482}}` springs in response to a request for a blessing demonstrates an act of great generosity. It fulfilled the need for water completely by providing sources from different elevations [[Joshua 15:19]].
* **Value of Land and Water:** The specific mention of **upper** springs underscores the immense value of water resources in a dry region like the **south** `{{H5045}}`. This gift was not just land, but sustainable, life-giving land with secure water sources, a true **blessing** `{{H1293}}` as requested [[Judges 1:15]].
* **Literal and Specific Language:** The word `ʻillîy` shows how biblical Hebrew is used for precise, practical description. Its use in a geographical context highlights the importance of physical inheritance and the specific details involved in the division of the **land** `{{H776}}`.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5942}}` **ʻillîy** is a focused term for "**upper**" used exclusively in a comparative sense. Its two biblical appearances in [[Joshua 15:19]] and [[Judges 1:15]] are in a single story, where it describes the location of springs of water. Paired with its opposite, "nether" `{{H8482}}`, it highlights the generosity of a gift that provided for a critical need in a parched land. Though its usage is rare, it offers a clear example of the practical and descriptive nature of the Hebrew language in recording matters of inheritance and provision.
TRV