אָלַף (a.laph)
a.laph
to produce thousands
H:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:V
Word Overview
The verb alaph carries a sense of abundance and multiplication, often translated as "to produce thousands" or "to make thousand-fold." In its primary usage within Scripture, it describes a divine act of generating great numbers, emphasizing the sheer scale of increase rather than just simple growth. This meaning is rooted in the concept of bringing forth large quantities, reflecting a power that expands beyond ordinary limits.
While the verb form appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, its connection to the noun eleph ("thousand") provides important context. The sources note that in some contexts, this root can also relate to leadership or command over thousands, hinting at a structural organization of people. However, the core lexical data highlights the numerical aspect: a dramatic, multiplied outcome. This usage underscores a theme of overwhelming provision or population growth, where the result is measured not in small increments but in vast, collective numbers.
Translators must carefully weigh whether the context points to literal multiplication or a metaphorical abundance. The singular occurrence in Psalms suggests a poetic emphasis on God's ability to generate great multitudes, reinforcing trust in His capacity to provide and sustain. The word’s force lies in its implication of exponential increase, marking a shift from scarcity to overwhelming plenty.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
In a single poetic line, this rare Hebrew verb paints a picture of overwhelming abundance. It describes life not as a slow trickle, but as an exponential surge—sheep multiplying into thousands and ten thousands. This language reminds us that God’s capacity to provide far exceeds our calculations or fears.
When you face seasons of scarcity or uncertainty, this word offers a quiet hope. It points to a Creator who can bring forth great multitudes from small beginnings. The focus is not on human effort, but on divine power that expands beyond ordinary limits.
This promise invites trust in His sustaining care. You do not need to manufacture plenty; you only need to rest in the One who produces it.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- [will be] producing thousands1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- מַ֭אֲלִיפוֹת1×
Key Verses
-
Psalms 144:13
Our barns are full, filled with all kinds of provision. Our sheep produce thousands and ten thousands in our fields.
This verse uses the verb to describe literal agricultural and livestock multiplication, emphasizing God's provision of material abundance for His people.