The Hebrew word ʻâlats, represented by H5970, is a primitive root defined as to jump for joy, i.e. exult; be joyful, rejoice, triumph. It appears 8 times in 8 unique verses, indicating a specific and powerful type of joy. This term denotes an exuberant exultation, often linked to victory, deliverance, and the triumph of righteousness.
In its biblical usage, H5970 consistently appears in contexts of great celebration and deliverance. In Hannah's prayer, she rejoiceth in the LORD because her "horn is exalted" and her "mouth is enlarged over" her enemies 1 Samuel 2:1. This connects the word to personal vindication and God's intervention. Similarly, the psalmist prays that his enemies will not triumph over him, framing the concept as a victory granted by God Psalms 25:2. The term also has a corporate dimension, as the joy of the righteous brings "great glory" Proverbs 28:12, and an entire city rejoiceth when it goes well with them Proverbs 11:10. The call for even the fields to rejoice extends this exultation to all of creation 1 Chronicles 16:32.
Several related words help clarify the nature of this triumphant joy:
- H8055 sâmach (be (make) glad, (have, make) joy(-ful)): Often appearing alongside ʻâlats, this word reinforces the theme of joy. The two are used together to express a profound and multifaceted gladness, as when the psalmist declares, "I will be glad and rejoice in thee" Psalms 9:2.
- H6662 tsaddîyq (just, lawful, righteous (man)): The experience of ʻâlats is frequently the portion of the righteous. They are the ones who rejoice when goodness prevails, bringing glory Proverbs 28:12, and are specifically called to rejoice before God Psalms 68:3.
- H3444 yᵉshûwʻâh (deliverance, health, help(-ing), salvation): This term points to the source of the joy. Hannah's exultation is a direct result of her confidence in God's salvation 1 Samuel 2:1.
- H982 bâṭach (to trust, be confident or sure): The foundation for this joy is trust in God. The confidence that God will not allow one to be ashamed is the basis for praying that enemies will not triumph Psalms 25:2.
The theological weight of H5970 is significant, highlighting a joy that is rooted in God's character and actions.
- Joy in Divine Salvation: This exultation is a response to God's saving work. It is not circumstantial happiness but a deep-seated joy that erupts when God's deliverance is experienced, as seen in Hannah's prayer 1 Samuel 2:1.
- The Triumph of Righteousness: The rejoicing of the righteous H6662 signifies more than personal blessing; it represents the victory of God's moral order. When the righteous exult, there is "great glory" Proverbs 28:12.
- A Response of Confident Trust: This joy is the outcome of placing one's trust H2620 in God. Those who trust in Him are able to be joyful H5970 because He is their defender Psalms 5:11.
In summary, H5970 conveys a powerful and triumphant joy that goes beyond simple gladness. It is an exultation rooted in the definitive action of God on behalf of His people. This joy is a response to His salvation H3444, a mark of the vindicated righteous H6662, and a confident declaration of victory over shame and enemies Psalms 25:2. From the personal cry of a thankful heart to the celebration of an entire city, ʻâlats represents the jubilant triumph that comes from experiencing the power and faithfulness of God.
TRV