טָלַל (ta.lal)
ta.lal
to cover
H:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:V
Word Overview
The Hebrew verb talal appears only once in the Old Testament, found in Nehemiah 3:15. In this specific instance, it describes the work of repairing a section of Jerusalem’s wall. The word carries the concrete meaning of covering something over, particularly with a roof or shelter.
Its usage is limited to the Piel stem, which emphasizes the action of covering. This linguistic feature highlights the physical act of providing protection or enclosure. The term is closely related to the Aramaic equivalent te.lal, which shares the sense of having shade or cover.
This rare occurrence underscores the practical nature of Nehemiah’s rebuilding project. The word points to the tangible effort required to restore safety and structure to the city. It serves as a reminder of the hands-on labor involved in communal restoration efforts described in Scripture.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word talal appears just once in the Hebrew Bible, nestled within the detailed account of Nehemiah rebuilding Jerusalem's walls. It describes the specific act of covering or roofing a gate structure. This isn't just about adding a roof; it is about creating a secure, enclosed space that protects what lies inside from the elements and potential threats.
For your faith life, this rare word reminds us that God cares about the practical details of restoration. Whether you are rebuilding a part of your own life or helping others do the same, the work involves tangible steps like covering, securing, and setting things in order. It shows that spiritual renewal often happens through steady, hands-on effort.
When you feel overwhelmed by the task of repair, remember that even small acts of covering and protecting matter. God sees the labor involved in making things whole again. This verse encourages us to find peace in the process of restoration, knowing that our efforts contribute to a larger picture of safety and community.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ he roofed over/ it1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וִ/יטַֽלְלֶ֔/נּוּ1×
Key Verses
-
Nehemiah 3:15
Shallun the son of Colhozeh, the ruler of the district of Mizpah, repaired the spring gate. He built it, covered it, and set up its doors, its bolts, and its bars; and he repaired the wall of the pool of Shelah by the king’s garden, even to the stairs that go down from David’s city.
This verse uniquely uses talal to describe Shallun covering the spring gate, highlighting the specific physical act of providing shelter as part of the city's defense.