גָּלָל (ga.lal)
ga.lal
because of
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 10 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The Hebrew verb galal carries the basic sense of rolling or turning something over. In its most common usage, it describes the physical act of moving a heavy stone, such as when Jacob rolls away the stone from the mouth of the well in Genesis 29:10. This concrete action serves as the foundation for its broader meanings.
From this physical root, the word extends into metaphorical territory. It can mean to remove or cast away, as seen in Jeremiah 51:64 where a scroll is rolled up and thrown into the Euphrates. In Deuteronomy 28:20, it appears in the context of pursuing or following closely, suggesting a relentless action. The sources highlight that while the literal meaning involves motion, the theological weight often lies in the consequence of that motion—whether it is the removal of an obstacle or the execution of judgment.
Translators typically render galal as "roll," "cast," or "remove" depending on the context. Its usage in Genesis and Jeremiah underscores a theme of decisive action: rolling away a stone to reveal water, or casting down a document to signify finality. The word does not imply gentle movement but rather forceful displacement, reflecting the power dynamics present in these biblical narratives.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Hebrew word galal often translates to 'because of' or 'for the sake of,' pointing to a deep connection between actions and their outcomes. In Genesis, we see Joseph’s integrity bringing blessing to Potiphar’s house, while Laban recognizes God’s favor in Joseph’s life. These moments show how our presence and choices can become channels for divine grace in the lives of others.
Yet this word also carries weight when it describes judgment. In Jeremiah and Micah, the phrase explains why destruction comes upon Israel—not as arbitrary punishment, but as a direct result of persistent rebellion. It reminds us that God’s responses are never random; they are tied to our path. When we stray, consequences follow. When we stand firm in faith, blessing often flows.
Understanding galal helps us see the seriousness of our decisions and the power of faithful living. It invites us to live with intention, knowing that our lives impact those around us and draw God’s attention—whether for comfort or correction. May we walk wisely, trusting that God sees and responds to our hearts.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 10 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- on/ account of5×
- on/ account of/ you4×
- and/ on/ account of1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- בִּ֠/גְלַל2×
- וּ/בִ/גְלַל֙1×
- בִּ/גְלָלֶֽ/ךָ\׃1×
- בִּ/גְלָלֵֽ/ךְ\׃1×
- בִּ/גְלַלְ/כֶ֖ם1×
- בִּ/גְלַלְ/כֶ֔ם1×
- בִּ/גְלַ֣ל\׀1×
- בִּ/גְלַ֣ל1×
- בִּ/גְלַ֞ל1×
Key Verses
-
Genesis 39:5
From the time that he made him overseer in his house, and over all that he had, Yahweh blessed the Egyptian’s house for Joseph’s sake. Yahweh’s blessing was on all that he had, in the house and in the field.
This verse shows how Joseph’s faithful presence became the reason Yahweh blessed Potiphar’s entire household, illustrating galal as a channel for divine favor.
-
Jeremiah 11:17
For Yahweh of Armies, who planted you, has pronounced evil against you, because of the evil of the house of Israel and of the house of Judah, which they have done to themselves in provoking me to anger by offering incense to Baal.
Here galal explains the cause of judgment: God’s pronouncement of evil is directly linked to Israel’s own provocative actions, highlighting accountability.
-
Micah 3:12
Therefore Zion for your sake will be plowed like a field, and Jerusalem will become heaps of rubble, and the mountain of the temple like the high places of a forest.
The word connects Zion’s devastation to the people’s sins, showing that galal often marks a causal relationship between human choice and divine response.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does galal mean in Hebrew?
Is galal used for both blessing and judgment?
How is galal different from other Hebrew words for 'because'?
Every Occurrence (10 verses across 5 books)
Genesis 3 verses
Please say that you are my sister, that it may be well with me for your sake, and that my soul may live because of you.”
Genesis 30:27Laban said to him, “If now I have found favor in your eyes, stay here, for I have divined that Yahweh has blessed me…
Genesis 39:5From the time that he made him overseer in his house, and over all that he had, Yahweh blessed the Egyptian’s house for…