The Hebrew verb yalak means to go, walk, come, depart, or proceed. It is one of the most common verbs in the Old Testament, occurring over 1,500 times. It describes physical movement but is frequently used metaphorically for one's manner of life, moral conduct, or spiritual direction.
Yalak is closely related to halak (H1980) and together they form the vocabulary for the biblical concept of "walking with God." To go after other gods or to walk in God's ways are two of the most fundamental choices presented to Israel. The verb also marks pivotal moments of obedient faith — God's call to Abraham to "go" from his country (Genesis 12:1) and His commission of Moses to "go" to Pharaoh. Walking in God's ways is the Old Testament equivalent of discipleship.