### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼâphêl**, represented by `{{H651}}`, is a specific term for **very dark** or **dusky**. It is derived from an unused root that means to set as the sun. This rare term appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, highlighting its specialized and emphatic use.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical appearance of `{{H651}}` is in a prophetic context within the book of Amos. The prophet asks a rhetorical question to underscore the true nature of the coming "day of the LORD," stating, "Shall not the day of the LORD be darkness, and not light? even **very dark**, and no brightness in it?" [[Amos 5:20]]. In this passage, **ʼâphêl** serves to intensify the word for darkness, conveying a sense of profound and absolute gloom that is devoid of any light or hope.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its singular context help define the meaning of **ʼâphêl** by contrast and association:
* `{{H2822}}` **chôshek** (darkness): This is the general term for darkness used alongside `{{H651}}`. It can refer literally to **the dark** or figuratively to concepts like misery, destruction, and sorrow. **ʼâphêl** elevates this concept to an extreme degree.
* `{{H216}}` **ʼôwr** (light): Used in direct opposition to **chôshek** and **ʼâphêl** in [[Amos 5:20]], this word means **illumination** or a luminary. Its absence emphasizes the totality of the darkness being described.
* `{{H5051}}` **nôgahh** (brightness): Also contrasted with **ʼâphêl**, this word signifies **brilliancy** or a clear shining. The verse explicitly states that the day of the Lord will have "no **brightness** in it," reinforcing the meaning of `{{H651}}` as a complete and utter darkness.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H651}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful usage to describe eschatological judgment.
* **The Character of Judgment:** The use of **ʼâphêl** defines the "day of the LORD" `{{H3068}}` not as a time of glory, but as a period of intense and inescapable gloom. It signifies a judgment that is absolute.
* **Absence of Hope:** By being set against both **light** `{{H216}}` and **brightness** `{{H5051}}`, the term illustrates a state devoid of divine favor, salvation, or any redeeming quality. The day is described as "very dark" specifically to remove any expectation of hope.
* **Prophetic Emphasis:** Its solitary use in [[Amos 5:20]] gives it immense rhetorical force. The prophet chooses this specific, rare word to deliver a shocking and unforgettable warning about the true nature of divine reckoning.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H651}}` is a highly specific term whose significance is derived from its singular, impactful appearance. While other words describe darkness, **ʼâphêl** is used in [[Amos 5:20]] to convey an ultimate and terrifying state of gloom. It defines the "day of the LORD" as a time of profound judgment, characterized by the complete absence of light, brightness, and hope, making it one of the most starkly descriptive words in prophetic scripture.
TRV