The meaning of “אֲבָל”
Understanding ʼăbâl reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
apparently from אָבַל through the idea of negation but, indeed, nevertheless, verily. - nay, i.e. truly or yet 1) truly,...
אֲבָל
apparently from אָבַל through the idea of negation but, indeed, nevertheless, verily. - nay, i.e. truly or yet 1) truly, verily, surely 2) but, however, howbeit 3) contrariwise, nay rather (neg.)
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Genesis 42:21 | “And they said one to another, We are verily guilty concerning our brother, in that we saw the anguish of his soul, when he besought us, and we would not hear; therefore is this distress come upon us.” Word: אֲבָל (ʼăbâl) | |
| 2 Samuel 14:5 | “And the king said unto her, What aileth thee? And she answered, I am indeed a widow woman, and mine husband is dead.” Word: אֲבָל (ʼăbâl) | |
| 1 Kings 1:43 | “And Jonathan answered and said to Adonijah, Verily our lord king David hath made Solomon king.” Word: אֲבָל (ʼăbâl) | |
| 2 Kings 4:14 | “And he said, What then is to be done for her? And Gehazi answered, Verily she hath no child, and her husband is old.” Word: אֲבָל (ʼăbâl) | |
| 2 Chronicles 19:3 | “Nevertheless there are good things found in thee, in that thou hast taken away the groves out of the land, and hast prepared thine heart to seek God.” Word: אֲבָל (ʼăbâl) |