אַלְמָן (al.man)
al.man
forsaken
H:AQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:A
Word Overview
The Hebrew word alman describes a state of being forsaken, specifically likening it to the isolation of a widow. While its root relates to widowhood, the term is used here to paint a picture of total abandonment rather than just marital status. In Jeremiah 51:5, this adjective applies to Israel itself, portraying the nation as one stripped of protection and left alone in its distress.
This usage shifts the focus from personal loss to corporate vulnerability. By calling Israel "forsaken," the text emphasizes a profound spiritual and social desolation. The image suggests that the community has lost its defenders, much like a widow in ancient society who might lack legal or familial support, leaving her exposed to hardship.
The rarity of this term in Scripture highlights its intensity. It appears only once as an adjective in this specific context, serving as a stark metaphor for divine judgment and the resulting loneliness of the people. The word captures the emotional weight of being cut off from help, reinforcing the gravity of the prophecy’s warning.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word for 'forsaken' in Jeremiah 51:5 carries a heavy weight, evoking the isolation of a widow who has lost her protector. It paints a picture of total abandonment, where one is stripped of defense and left exposed to hardship. This rare term underscores the depth of spiritual desolation that can occur when a community feels cut off from help.
Yet this verse offers a crucial turning point. The prophet declares that Israel is not truly forsaken by Yahweh of Armies. Despite their guilt and the resulting loneliness, God remains present. This contrast reminds us that even in our deepest moments of vulnerability or perceived distance from divine protection, we are held by a faithful presence.
When life feels isolating or when you sense a lack of support, remember that your standing is not defined by your circumstances alone. The assurance here is that the Holy One of Israel does not abandon His people. You can find comfort in knowing that true security rests in a relationship that endures beyond our failures or fears.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- [is] forsaken1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- אַלְמָ֨ן1×
Key Verses
-
Jeremiah 51:5
For Israel is not forsaken, nor Judah, by his God, by Yahweh of Armies; though their land is full of guilt against the Holy One of Israel.
This occurrence matters because it uses the rare adjective for 'forsaken' to describe Israel's state, immediately followed by a denial that God has abandoned them, highlighting the tension between human guilt and divine faithfulness.