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H253 · Hebrew · Old Testament
אָח
Ach
Interjection
Ah! Alas! (exclamation of grief)

Definition

Ach is an interjection expressing grief, distress, or lamentation — equivalent to "Ah!" or "Alas!" in English. It occurs in prophetic laments and calls to repentance, giving voice to deep sorrow. Not to be confused with the more common H251 (brother/ach).

Usage & Theological Significance

Lament is a legitimate and honored form of prayer and expression in Scripture. The prophets cried "Ah, Lord!" (Jeremiah 1:6; 14:13) not as blasphemy but as raw, honest petition before God. This interjection models the biblical permission — even the imperative — to bring our grief and dismay directly to God rather than suppressing it.

Key Bible Verses

Numbers 24:23 Alas! Who can live when God does this?
Joel 1:15 Alas for that day! For the day of the LORD is near; it will come like destruction from the Almighty.
Ezekiel 6:11 Strike your hands together and stamp your foot and cry out alas because of all the wicked and detestable practices of the people of Israel.
Jeremiah 1:6 Alas, Sovereign LORD, I do not know how to speak; I am too young.
Amos 5:16 There will be wailing in all the streets and cries of anguish in every public square.

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