### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻârîyph**, represented by `{{H6183}}`, is defined as **the sky (as dropping at the horizon); heaven**. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the entire Bible, making its single usage highly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H6183}}` is in a prophecy of judgment found in the book of Isaiah. The verse describes a day of roaring destruction and sorrow, where "if one look unto the land, behold darkness and sorrow, and the light is darkened in the **heavens** thereof" [[Isaiah 5:30]]. Here, the heavens are not a symbol of hope but are instead a participant in the overwhelming gloom, showing the comprehensive nature of the coming desolation.
### Related Words & Concepts
In its biblical context, `{{H6183}}` is directly associated with words signifying darkness and the removal of light:
* `{{H2821}}` **châshak**: This is a primitive root meaning **to be dark (as withholding light); transitively, to darken**. In Isaiah's prophecy, it is the light that "is darkened" `{{H2821}}` in the heavens, linking the state of the sky directly to an action of obscuring light [[Isaiah 5:30]].
* `{{H2822}}` **chôshek**: This word means **darkness**, and can figuratively represent misery, destruction, and death. It appears alongside `{{H6183}}` to describe the state of the land, which is full of "darkness" `{{H2822}}` and sorrow [[Isaiah 5:30]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6183}}` is tied entirely to its singular, powerful context in Isaiah.
* **Cosmic Judgment:** The word's usage demonstrates that God's judgment is not limited to the earth but extends to the cosmos. The darkening of the **heavens** `{{H6183}}` signifies a total and inescapable divine response to sin.
* **Symbol of Sorrow:** In this passage, the sky is stripped of its light and becomes a canopy of gloom, reflecting the sorrow and despair on the land below [[Isaiah 5:30]].
* **The Removal of Light:** The function of the **heavens** in this verse is to be the location where light is extinguished. This portrays a world where hope and divine favor have been withdrawn, a theme reinforced by related prophecies where God darkens the sun and stars as a sign of judgment ([[Isaiah 13:10]], [[Amos 8:9]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6183}}` is a precise and potent term for the **heavens**. Though used only once, its context in [[Isaiah 5:30]] imbues it with a heavy theological meaning. It stands as a stark reminder of a sky not filled with light and glory, but one darkened in a day of judgment, serving as a powerful illustration of the all-encompassing nature of divine sorrow and wrath.
TRV