### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻăqallâthôwn**, represented by `{{H6129}}`, means **crooked** or **tortuous**. Derived from the root word `עָקַל`, it appears only a single time in one verse in the entire biblical text, yet it carries significant descriptive weight in its sole context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H6129}}` is in [[Isaiah 27:1]], a prophecy describing a future day of judgment. In this verse, the LORD `{{H3068}}` wields a "sore and great and strong sword" to punish Leviathan. The text uses `{{H6129}}` to specifically describe Leviathan as the "**crooked** serpent," highlighting its twisted and winding nature as it faces divine retribution. This descriptor is paired with the parallel phrase "piercing serpent," creating a powerful image of a formidable but condemned foe.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in [[Isaiah 27:1]] illuminate the context of **ʻăqallâthôwn**:
* `{{H3882}}` **livyâthân** (leviathan): The entity described as "crooked." It is defined as "a wreathed animal, i.e. a serpent (especially the crocodile or some other large sea-monster); figuratively, the constellation of the dragon; also as a symbol of Babylon" [[Isaiah 27:1]].
* `{{H5175}}` **nâchâsh** (serpent): The specific type of creature Leviathan is called. The word simply means "a snake (from its hiss); serpent" [[Isaiah 27:1]].
* `{{H1281}}` **bârîyach** (piercing): A parallel descriptor for Leviathan in the same verse, defined as "a fugitive, i.e. the serpent (as fleeing), and the constellation by that name; crooked, noble, piercing" [[Isaiah 27:1]].
* `{{H8577}}` **tannîyn** (dragon): The creature that is slain in the sea in the same prophetic action, reinforcing the theme of divine power over monstrous sea-creatures. It is defined as "a marine or land monster, i.e. sea-serpent or jackal" [[Isaiah 27:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6129}}` is tied exclusively to its use in [[Isaiah 27:1]].
* **Symbol of Opposition:** The term "crooked" is applied to Leviathan, a powerful serpent that is the object of God's punishment `{{H6485}}`, positioning it as a significant adversary.
* **Object of Divine Judgment:** Its usage is set within the context of "that day" `{{H3117}}`, a time of ultimate judgment. The serpent's "crooked" nature is part of the characterization of that which the LORD `{{H3068}}` will punish with His "great and strong sword" (`{{H1419}}`, `{{H2389}}`, `{{H2719}}`).
* **Entity Destined for Defeat:** The verse concludes with the promise that God "shall slay the dragon that is in the sea" (`{{H2026}}`, `{{H8577}}`, `{{H3220}}`). The adjective "crooked" thus describes a mighty but ultimately doomed enemy of God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6129}}` is a rare but impactful word. As **crooked** or **tortuous**, it vividly characterizes the "leviathan" in [[Isaiah 27:1]]. Though it appears only once, it contributes to a powerful prophetic image of the LORD's absolute authority and His final, decisive victory over formidable, serpent-like powers that stand in opposition to Him.
TRV