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עַלִּיז (al.liz)

al.liz

jubilant

H5947 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 7 verses

H:A

Quick Reference

Language
Biblical Hebrew
Testament
Old Testament
Occurrences
7 verses
Root
—
Part of speech
H:A

Word Overview

The Hebrew adjective al·liz describes a state of being exultant or jubilant. It captures the outward expression of deep inner joy, often linked to celebration and relief. With only seven occurrences in the Old Testament, it is a rare but vivid word that paints a picture of unreserved happiness.

This term appears prominently in prophetic literature, particularly in Isaiah and Zephaniah. In Isaiah 24:11, for instance, the prophet contrasts the silence of mourning with the lack of al·liz joy, showing how this word marks the presence of festive life. Similarly, Zephaniah uses it to describe the restored joy of God’s people after judgment (Zephaniah 3:15), highlighting its connection to divine favor and deliverance.

The root suggests a lifting up or shining forth, fitting for a word that denotes visible celebration. Translators typically render it as "jubilant" or "exultant," preserving the sense of public, unrestrained gladness. Its scarcity in Scripture makes each usage stand out, emphasizing moments when God’s people experience profound relief and praise.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The word al·liz captures a joy so deep it cannot be contained within the heart. It describes an outward, visible celebration—a state of being jubilant that breaks through silence and sorrow. In the Old Testament, this term is rare, appearing only seven times, which makes its usage in moments of divine deliverance all the more significant. When God acts on behalf of His people, their response is not a quiet gratitude but a loud, unrestrained exultation.

For your faith life, this word reminds us that joy is often a response to grace. Isaiah uses it to describe those called for battle, yet also to depict the restored happiness of Zion after judgment. It suggests that true celebration arises when we recognize God’s hand in our circumstances. Whether in times of conflict or restoration, this jubilant spirit invites us to lift our voices and acknowledge the relief and favor we have received.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 7 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • jubilant2×
  • [the] exultant [ones] of2×
  • jubilant [people]1×
  • jubilant [city]1×
  • <the>/ jubilant1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • עַלִּיזָ֑ה2×
  • עַלִּיזָֽה\׃1×
  • עַלִּיזֵי֙1×
  • עַלִּיזֵ֖י1×
  • עַלִּיזִ֑ים1×
  • הָ/עַלִּיזָה֙1×

Key Verses

  • Isaiah 24:8
    The mirth of tambourines ceases. The sound of those who rejoice ends. The joy of the harp ceases.

    This verse highlights the absence of al·liz joy, showing how its presence marks the vibrant, festive life that God intends for His people.

  • Zephaniah 3:11
    In that day you will not be disappointed for all your doings in which you have transgressed against me; for then I will take away out from among you your proudly exulting ones, and you will no more be arrogant in my holy mountain.

    Here the word describes those who are removed so that the remnant may experience humility and true restoration on God's holy mountain.

  • Isaiah 13:3
    I have commanded my consecrated ones; yes, I have called my mighty men for my anger, even my proudly exulting ones.

    The term modifies 'mighty men' who are called, indicating a fierce, exultant readiness to act in accordance with divine anger and purpose.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Hebrew word al·liz mean?

Al·liz is an adjective that means 'jubilant' or 'exultant.' It describes a state of outward, visible joy and celebration, often linked to relief or divine favor. Unlike quiet happiness, it implies a loud, unrestrained expression of gladness.

Where does this word appear in the Bible?

It appears seven times in the Old Testament, primarily in the prophetic books of Isaiah and Zephaniah. Notable occurrences include Isaiah 24:8, where its absence marks mourning, and Zephaniah 3:11, where it describes those who are removed to allow for true restoration.

How is al·liz different from other words for joy?

While other Hebrew words like samach (H8056) can mean general rejoicing, al·liz specifically conveys a sense of exultation or pride in one's state. It often carries a nuance of public celebration or a lifting up of spirit that is evident to others.

Every Occurrence (7 verses across 2 books)

Isaiah 5 verses
Isaiah 13:3

I have commanded my consecrated ones; yes, I have called my mighty men for my anger, even my proudly exulting ones.

Isaiah 22:2

You that are full of shouting, a tumultuous city, a joyous town, your slain are not slain with the sword, neither are…

Isaiah 23:7

Is this your joyous city, whose antiquity is of ancient days, whose feet carried her far away to travel?

Isaiah 24:8

The mirth of tambourines ceases. The sound of those who rejoice ends. The joy of the harp ceases.

Isaiah 32:13

Thorns and briers will come up on my people’s land; yes, on all the houses of joy in the joyous city.

Zephaniah 2 verses