### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻălîytsûwth**, represented by `{{H5951}}`, means **exultation** or **rejoicing**. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular use describes a specific kind of malicious joy, tied to the violent actions of an enemy.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H5951}}` is in [[Habakkuk 3:14]], within a prayer recounting God's power against adversaries. The verse describes an enemy force whose **rejoicing** is not righteous but predatory. Their glee is compared to the act of one who would "devour{H398} the poor{H6041} secretly{H4565}" [[Habakkuk 3:14]]. This context frames the word not as a positive celebration, but as the cruel exultation of an oppressor.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words from its context in [[Habakkuk 3:14]] illuminate the nature of this **rejoicing**:
* `{{H398}}` **ʼâkal** (to eat... consume, devour): This word is used to describe the *nature* of the enemy's rejoicing, equating it to the act of devouring a victim. It highlights the destructive and consuming quality of their exultation [[Habakkuk 3:14]].
* `{{H6041}}` **ʻânîy** (depressed, in mind or circumstances; afflicted, humble, lowly, needy, poor): This identifies the target of the enemy's predatory joy. The rejoicing of the wicked is specifically aimed at consuming the **poor** and vulnerable [[Habakkuk 3:14]].
* `{{H5590}}` **çâʻar** (to rush upon... be tempestuous... whirlwind): This describes the enemy's method of attack. They "came out as a **whirlwind** to scatter me" [[Habakkuk 3:14]], connecting their malicious glee to a sudden and overwhelming assault.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H5951}}` lies in its unique and negative portrayal of joy.
* **Perversion of Joy:** It illustrates how rejoicing, a state often associated with God and righteousness, can be perverted into a malicious and predatory emotion by the wicked. Their exultation is tied to destruction, specifically the devouring of the poor [[Habakkuk 3:14]].
* **Character of the Wicked:** The word contributes to a biblical portrait of the ungodly, whose happiness is derived from the oppression and suffering of the vulnerable. Their actions are likened to a violent whirlwind and their joy to a secret, predatory ambush.
* **Divine Justice:** The word appears in a context where God is actively judging this very behavior. He is described as striking "through with his staves the head of his villages" [[Habakkuk 3:14]], demonstrating that such wicked rejoicing ultimately invites divine retribution.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5951}}` **ʻălîytsûwth** is a highly specific term for **rejoicing**. Its single biblical appearance in [[Habakkuk 3:14]] gives it a dark and cautionary meaning. It is not the joy of the righteous, but the cruel exultation of an enemy who delights in the destruction of the poor and afflicted. The word serves as a stark reminder that the nature of one's joy is a powerful indicator of their moral and spiritual state.
TRV