The Hebrew word ʻălîylâh, represented by H5949, refers to an exploit, a performance, or a deed. It appears 24 times in 24 unique verses in the Bible. The term carries a dual meaning, often describing the mighty acts of God, but also referring to the doings of humanity, which are frequently presented in a negative sense as corrupt inventions or pretexts.
In scripture, H5949 is used to contrast the nature of God's actions with those of mankind. The term is repeatedly used to call people to declare God's mighty deeds or doings (Psalms 105:1; 1 Chronicles 16:8; Isaiah 12:4). His acts are presented as something to be made known to all people, as seen when God revealed His ways to Moses and His acts to Israel Psalms 103:7. Conversely, when applied to humans, the word often describes corrupt and wicked works Psalms 141:4. These human doings are the basis for divine judgment and are described as defiling Ezekiel 36:17 and corrupt Zephaniah 3:7. In a specific legal context, it can also mean an occasion for an accusation, such as giving "occasions of speech" against a new wife Deuteronomy 22:14.
Several related words clarify the context and meaning of H5949:
- H1870 derek (way): This word is frequently paired with ʻălîylâh to describe a person's complete course of life and conduct, upon which God's judgment is based (Ezekiel 24:14; Ezekiel 36:19).
- H7843 shâchath (to corrupt): This verb is used to describe the nature of human doings, emphasizing their depravity. People are said to have corrupted all their doings Zephaniah 3:7, and their doings themselves are called corrupt Ezekiel 20:44.
- H5953 ʻâlal (to practise, do): As the root verb from which ʻălîylâh is derived, it appears in contexts of practicing wicked works, showing the active nature of these deeds Psalms 141:4.
- H1697 dâbâr (speech, matter): This term is used alongside ʻălîylâh to signify a pretext or an "occasion of speech" used to bring a false accusation (Deuteronomy 22:14; Deuteronomy 22:17).
The theological weight of H5949 is demonstrated through its consistent usage in several key themes:
- The Standard for Divine Judgment: A person's doings are presented as the evidence weighed by God. The LORD is a God of knowledge by whom actions are weighed 1 Samuel 2:3, and He judges people according to their ways and doings (Ezekiel 24:14; Ezekiel 36:19).
- The Contrast Between Divine and Human Action: The word highlights a stark difference. God's doings are mighty exploits to be declared and praised (Psalms 9:11; Psalms 77:12). In contrast, humanity's doings are often described as abominable Psalms 14:1, corrupt Ezekiel 20:44, and the source of their defilement Ezekiel 36:17.
- The Call to Proclamation: Believers are commanded to make God's deeds and doings known among the people (Psalms 105:1; 1 Chronicles 16:8). This implies that a core function of the faithful is to testify to God's powerful work in the world.
In summary, H5949 is a powerful word that encapsulates the concept of action and its moral implications. It serves as a vehicle to contrast the glorious and terrible acts of God with the frequently sinful and corrupt doings of mankind. This term underscores that all doings are subject to divine judgment and that the mighty deeds of the LORD are to be remembered, celebrated, and proclaimed among the nations. It is a constant reminder of the accountability for one's actions before a holy God.
TRV