עַלְמָה

עַלְמָה

a lass (as veiled or private)

Definition

The Hebrew noun עַלְמָה (ʻalmâh) refers to a young woman of marriageable age, typically characterized by youth and vitality. While it can denote a virgin, as in the case of Rebekah in Genesis 24:43, its primary semantic focus is on her stage of life and social status rather than a strict biological condition. In other contexts, it describes a young woman in a general sense, such as the maidens playing timbrels in Psalm 68:25 or the companions of the Shulammite in Song of Solomon 6:8. Its most famous and debated usage is in Isaiah 7:14, where it is prophetically applied.

Biblical Usage

The word appears seven times in the Old Testament, spanning narrative, poetry, and prophecy. In narrative (Genesis 24:43, Exodus 2:8), it describes a specific, marriageable young woman. In poetic books (Psalms, Proverbs, Song of Solomon), it is used more generally for young women, often in groups, symbolizing beauty and companionship (Song of Solomon 1:3, 6:8; Psalm 68:25). Its singular prophetic use in Isaiah 7:14 sets it apart, giving it a unique theological weight.

Etymology

Derived from the root עלם (ʻ-l-m), meaning 'to be hidden' or 'to conceal,' it is the feminine form of עֶלֶם (ʻelem, H5958), meaning 'a young man.' The connection to 'concealment' may relate to the veiling or seclusion of a young woman of marriageable age in ancient Near Eastern culture, emphasizing her being of a private, protected status.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant primarily due to its use in Isaiah 7:14, a prophecy quoted in Matthew 1:23 as foretelling the virgin birth of Jesus Christ. The debate between its translation as 'young woman' or 'virgin' highlights the importance of understanding Hebrew semantics and context. Recognizing that ʻalmâh can, but does not exclusively, mean 'virgin' enriches the study of this prophecy, showing how the New Testament authors, working from the Greek Septuagint's translation 'parthenos' (virgin), understood and applied its fulfillment in Christ. In ancient Israelite culture, an ʻalmâh was a young woman who had reached puberty and was of marriageable age, a time when she would typically be under the protection of her father's household. While virginity was the expected norm for an unmarried young woman in that society, the term itself emphasized her youth and social role more than a technical physical state. This cultural nuance is important for modern readers, who might assume the word is a direct, exclusive synonym for 'virgin.' בְּתוּלָה (bᵉthûlâ, H1330) — A more specific term often emphasizing virginity as a state. נַעֲרָה (naʻărâ, H5291) — A broader term for a girl or young woman, often a servant. יַלְדָּה (yaldâ, H3207) — A female child or young girl.

Word Details