### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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