אַלְיָה
the stout part, i.e. the fat tail of the Oriental sheep
Definition
The Hebrew word אַלְיָה (ʼalyâh) refers specifically to the fat tail of a sheep, particularly the broad, fatty tail characteristic of certain breeds of sheep in the ancient Near East. In the Bible, it denotes a distinct anatomical part of the sacrificial animal, which was considered a choice and fatty portion. This term is used exclusively in the context of the sacrificial system, where it is listed among the parts to be offered to God, such as in Exodus 29:22 and Leviticus 3:9. It does not have any other metaphorical or extended meanings in the biblical text.
Biblical Usage
This word is used exclusively in the priestly texts of the Pentateuch, specifically in the books of Exodus and Leviticus, detailing the procedures for sacrifices. It appears five times, always in the context of the ordination offerings (Exodus 29:22; Leviticus 8:25) and peace or fellowship offerings (Leviticus 3:9; 7:3; 9:19). Its usage is highly patterned, consistently referring to the fat tail as a part of the ram or lamb that is to be burned on the altar as a food offering to the Lord.
Etymology
The noun אַלְיָה is derived from the root אָלָה (ʼālâ, H422), which in its original sense conveys strength or stoutness. This etymology directly relates to the physical characteristic of the tail being a stout, fatty, and substantial part of the animal. The development of meaning is straightforward, moving from the abstract concept of strength to the concrete, strong or fat body part.
Semantic Range
The אַלְיָה holds theological significance as part of the sacrificial system that taught Israel about consecration and atonement. As a choice, fatty portion, its burning on the altar (Leviticus 3:9-11) symbolized giving the best to God and represented the sufficiency of the sacrifice. Understanding this specific term enriches reading by highlighting the detailed obedience required in worship and the symbolism of offering one's strength and abundance to the Lord.
In the ancient Near Eastern context, the fat tail of certain sheep breeds (like the Awassi) was a prized source of fat and nutrition. This cultural reality informs the biblical instruction to offer this specific part to God, signifying the gift of a valuable and desirable portion. Modern readers might overlook the significance of a 'tail,' but in its original setting, it was a recognized symbol of richness and quality.
חֵלֶב (cheleb, H2459) — This is the general Hebrew word for 'fat' or 'fatty portion,' which often includes the אַלְיָה as a specific, named example within the sacrificial descriptions.
Word Details
How this works
Hebrew definitions are from Brown-Driver-Briggs (1906) and Strong's Exhaustive Concordance (1890), both public domain. BDB was groundbreaking for its era but reflects 19th-century assumptions about Semitic etymology. Modern scholarship (HALOT, DCH) has revised many entries. Use these definitions as a starting point for exploration, not as the final word on a term's meaning in context.
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