עֲלַע (a.la)
a.la
rib
A:N-FQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- A:N-F
Word Overview
The word ala is an Aramaic noun meaning rib, appearing only once in the Hebrew Bible at Daniel 7:5. It serves as the Aramaic equivalent of the Hebrew tsela, which typically denotes a side or flank but specifically means rib when referring to anatomy. In this rare instance, the text uses the term to describe the physical structure of the beast rising from the sea.
The passage depicts a bear raised up on one side, with three ribs in its mouth between its teeth. This concrete detail emphasizes the animal’s violent nature and its preparation for destruction. The use of ala here provides a stark, visceral image that underscores the brutality of the vision, contrasting the beast’s physical form with the spiritual realities it represents.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
When we encounter strange visions in Scripture, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by their symbolic weight. The word for rib here appears in a vivid description of a bear raised on one side, with three ribs clenched in its teeth. This image does not merely describe an animal; it paints a picture of aggressive power and impending violence. In Daniel’s dream, these details serve as a stark warning about the nature of earthly kingdoms that rely on force rather than justice.
For your faith life, this passage invites you to look beyond surface-level interpretations. The specific mention of ribs highlights the physical cost of such tyranny. It reminds us that history is filled with powers that seek to devour, yet God remains sovereign over these events. You can find comfort in knowing that no matter how fierce the beasts may seem, they operate within the boundaries set by the Ancient of Days.
Ultimately, this word anchors us in the reality that human strength is often brutal and temporary. While empires rise and fall with violent intent, the kingdom of God stands firm. We are called to trust in a ruler who does not feed on flesh but offers peace. This ancient vision encourages you to place your hope in eternal truth rather than fleeting political power.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- ribs1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- עִלְעִ֛ין1×
Key Verses
-
Daniel 7:5
“Behold, there was another animal, a second, like a bear. It was raised up on one side, and three ribs were in its mouth between its teeth. They said this to it: ‘Arise! Devour much flesh!’
The term specifies the three ribs held in the bear's mouth, emphasizing the beast's violent readiness to devour and its physical preparation for destruction.