Original Word: אָלַח
Part of Speech: verb
Transliteration: alach
Pronunciation: ah-lakh
Phonetic Spelling: (aw-lakh')
Definition: To go, to walk, to proceed
Meaning: to muddle, to turn, corrupt

become filthy

A primitive root; to muddle, i.e. (figuratively and intransitive) to turn (morally) corrupt -- become filthy.

Word Origin
a prim. root
Definition
to be corrupt (morally)
NASB Translation
become corrupt (2), corrupt (1).

[אָלַח] verb only

Niph`al be corrupt morally; tainted (Che Psalm 14:3) (compare Arabic VIII. be confused (of a thing), of milk, turn sour) Perfect3plural נֶאֱלָ֑חוּ Psalm 14:3; Psalm 53:4; Participle נֶאֱלָח a corrupt man Job 15:16.

Word Origin: A primitive root

Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: • G169 (ἀκαθαρσία, akatharsia): This Greek term is often translated as "uncleanness" or "impurity" and is used in the New Testament to describe moral or ceremonial impurity. It aligns with the concept of corruption or defilement found in אָלַח.
• G889 (ἀμίαντος, amiantos): Meaning "undefiled" or "pure," this term is used in the New Testament to describe something that is free from contamination or corruption. It serves as a contrast to the state described by אָלַח, emphasizing purity and holiness.

In summary, the Hebrew verb אָלַח (alach) encapsulates the notion of corruption and defilement, both in a physical and moral sense, and is echoed in the Greek terms used in the New Testament to describe similar states of impurity.

Usage: The verb אָלַח (alach) is used in the context of moral or physical corruption, indicating a process of becoming tainted or spoiled. It conveys the idea of something being turned from its original, pure state into one that is defiled or impure.

Context: The Hebrew verb אָלַח (alach) appears in the Old Testament to describe the act of corruption or defilement. This term is often used metaphorically to describe moral decay or the process by which something becomes impure. The root suggests a turning or twisting away from an intended path or purpose, leading to a state of disorder or impurity.

In the context of the Hebrew Bible, the concept of corruption is significant, as it often denotes a departure from God's intended order or design. The use of אָלַח can be seen in passages where the moral or spiritual state of individuals or communities is in focus, highlighting the consequences of turning away from divine commandments and principles.

The term is not frequently used in the Hebrew Bible, but its implications are profound, often associated with the broader themes of sin, judgment, and the need for purification or redemption. The process of corruption, as indicated by אָלַח, underscores the biblical narrative of humanity's struggle with sin and the divine call to return to righteousness.

וְֽנֶאֱלָ֑ח ונאלח נֶ֫אֱלָ֥חוּ נאלחו ne’ĕlāḥū ne·’ĕ·lā·ḥū neeLachu veneeLach wə·ne·’ĕ·lāḥ wəne’ĕlāḥInterlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts