מַאֲפֵל
ma.a.phel (H3990)
darkness
AI Word Study
The Hebrew word "מַאֲפֵל" (ma.a.phel), translated as "darkness", appears once in the Bible. This limited occurrence suggests its usage is specific and deliberate, possibly emphasizing the severity or intensity of darkness. Its short definition and categorization within the semantic domain of "Light & Darkness" indicate that "מַאֲפֵל" directly refers to the absence or presence of light, likely used to describe a somber, opaque, or even oppressive condition. The uniqueness of "מַאֲפֵל" in the Bible highlights its distinct character among other words for darkness, implying its choice by the author for a particular effect or emphasis, contributing to a selective narrative focus.
AI synthesis uses only provided lexicon data -- never training knowledge.
When they cried out to Yahweh, he put darkness between you and the Egyptians, and brought the sea on them, and covered them; and your eyes saw what I did in Egypt. You lived in the wilderness many days.