אִי
i
woe!
Lexicon Entry
Lexicon data from STEPBible TIPNR, Tyndale House, Cambridge. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
What Original Readers Understood
ExploredThe Hebrew word "אִי" (i) is a term of lamentation, equivalent to "woe!" It is used to express sorrow, regret, or dismay, often in response to a difficult situation or a dire prediction. This word has a limited occurrence in the Bible, appearing only twice. In terms of usage, "אִי" is a standalone expression, not typically used in conjunction with other words. Its brevity and simplicity convey a sense of urgency and intensity, making it a powerful way to convey strong emotions. The significance of this word lies in its ability to convey a sense of foreboding or impending doom, often serving as a warning or a call to attention. The limited occurrence of "אִי" in the Bible suggests that it is a word with a specific, evocative power, rather than a common expression. Its use in only two instances implies that it is reserved for particularly significant or memorable moments, adding to its emotional impact and significance.
Source data & methodology
Occurrences in Scripture
2 total occurrences across the text