עֲלָת (a.lah)
a.lah
burnt offering
A:N-FQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- A:N-F
Word Overview
The Aramaic noun ʿălat denotes a burnt offering, serving as the equivalent of the Hebrew ʿolah (H5930). In the biblical text, this term appears only once, in Ezra 6:9, where it describes the sacrificial provisions required for the rebuilding of the temple. The word refers to an animal sacrifice entirely consumed by fire on the altar, symbolizing total dedication to God.
Its presence in Ezra highlights the continuity of worship practices as the Jewish community returned from exile. By using this specific Aramaic term, the text reflects the linguistic reality of the post-exilic period while maintaining the theological significance of the holocaust sacrifice found throughout the Torah. The usage underscores a commitment to restoring proper ritual observance in Jerusalem.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The term for burnt offering in this passage points to a sacrifice entirely consumed by fire, symbolizing total dedication to God. In Ezra 6:9, the exiles returning from Babylon were instructed to provide bulls, rams, and lambs for these offerings. This detail highlights their commitment to restoring proper worship practices in Jerusalem after years of silence.
For your faith today, this word reminds us that true worship involves giving our best to God, not just what is left over. It was a tangible act of surrender, showing that the people valued their relationship with the Creator above their own comfort or convenience. The effort required to gather these animals and prepare them reflects a heart eager to honor Heaven.
When we think about our own lives, this concept invites us to consider what 'total dedication' looks like in our daily routines. It is not about ritual perfection, but about the posture of the heart that seeks to please God consistently. This ancient practice continues to speak to anyone who desires a life fully aligned with divine purpose.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- for/ burnt offerings1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- לַ/עֲלָוָ֣ן\׀1×
Key Verses
-
Ezra 6:9
That which they have need of, including young bulls, rams, and lambs, for burnt offerings to the God of heaven; also wheat, salt, wine, and oil, according to the word of the priests who are at Jerusalem, let it be given them day by day without fail,
This verse specifies the exact animals required for burnt offerings, showing that worship involved tangible sacrifice and specific obedience to God's instructions.