Original Word: לֹעַ
Part of Speech: Noun Masculine
Transliteration: loa`
Pronunciation: lo
Phonetic Spelling: (lo'ah)
Definition: the gullet
Meaning: The gullet or throat.

Word Origin: Derived from an unused root meaning to swallow.

Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: There is no direct Greek equivalent for לֹעַ in the Strong's Concordance, as the concept of the gullet or throat is often expressed differently in Greek texts. However, related Greek terms that convey similar ideas of swallowing or consumption include:
• Strong's Greek Number 5421 (φάρυγξ, pharynx): Referring to the throat or gullet.
• Strong's Greek Number 2666 (καταπίνω, katapino): Meaning to swallow up or devour.

These Greek terms capture the essence of the Hebrew לֹעַ in their respective contexts, emphasizing the act of swallowing or the function of the throat.

Usage: The term לֹעַ is used in the context of the throat or gullet, often metaphorically to describe the act of swallowing or consuming.

Context: • Biblical Context: The Hebrew word לֹעַ appears in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of describing the physical act of swallowing or the throat as a passageway for food and drink. It is often used metaphorically to convey ideas of consumption or destruction.
• Scriptural Reference: In Job 41:15 (BSB), the word is used to describe the formidable nature of Leviathan, emphasizing its powerful and consuming presence: "His rows of scales are his pride, shut up closely as with a seal."
• Theological Implications: The use of לֹעַ in the Hebrew Bible often carries a deeper symbolic meaning, representing not just the physical act of swallowing but also the idea of engulfing or overwhelming. This can be seen in the broader narrative of divine power and judgment, where the imagery of the throat or gullet serves as a metaphor for the consuming nature of God's justice or the destructive power of chaos, as embodied by creatures like Leviathan.
• Cultural Significance: In ancient Near Eastern culture, the throat was considered a vital part of the body, essential for life and sustenance. The metaphorical use of לֹעַ in biblical texts reflects this cultural understanding, highlighting the throat's role in both physical and spiritual nourishment or destruction.

Word Origin
from lua
Definition
probably throat
NASB Translation
throat (1).

[לֹעַ] noun [masculine] probably throat> (external) (compare Late Hebrew לוֺעַ jaw, cheek, Aramaic לוֺעָא, id.); — וְשַׂמְתָּ֫ שַׂכִּין בְּלֹעֶ֑ךָ Proverbs 23:2 and thou shalt put a knife to thy throat (figurative for restraining oneself from indulgence in food).

throat

From luwa'; the gullet -- throat.

see HEBREW luwa'

בְּלֹעֶ֑ךָ בלעך bə·lō·‘e·ḵā bəlō‘eḵā beloEchaInterlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts