or עֲלִלָה; from עָלַל in the sense of effecting; an exploit (of God), or a performance (of man, often in a bad sense); by implication, an opportunity; act(-ion), deed, doing, invention, occasion, work.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]]).
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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