טַלְמוֹן (tal.mon)
tal.mon
Talmon
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 5 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Talmon identifies a Levitical gatekeeper whose family served at the temple during the post-exilic period. Listed in 1 Chronicles 9:17, he is described as the head of a hereditary group responsible for guarding the entrances to the sanctuary. This role was not merely security; it involved maintaining ritual purity by ensuring that only those who were ceremonially clean could enter the sacred precincts.
His descendants are mentioned again in Ezra 2:42 and Nehemiah 7:45, confirming that this specific family continued their duty after the return from Babylon. The name itself is often linked to a root meaning "oppressor" or "tyrant," which creates an interesting contrast with his peaceful, protective function at the temple gates. While the etymology suggests force, the biblical record emphasizes faithful service and preservation of order within the restored community.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Talmon appears in lists that might seem dry at first glance, yet it points to a profound reality about service. In the restored community, gatekeepers like Talmon were not mere guards; they were spiritual stewards responsible for maintaining the holiness of God’s house. Their work required vigilance, purity, and a deep sense of duty to protect what was sacred.
For your faith, this reminds us that every role in the body of Christ matters. Whether we are leading or serving behind the scenes, our faithful obedience contributes to the health and witness of the church. Talmon’s lineage continued across generations, showing how consistent, quiet faithfulness leaves a lasting legacy for those who follow.
May you find encouragement in knowing that God values the faithful service of His people, no matter how hidden or humble the task may seem.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 5 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Talmon4×
- and/ Talmon1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- טַלְמ֣וֹן2×
- טַלְמֹ֣ן1×
- טַלְמ֔וֹן1×
- וְ/טַלְמֹ֖ן1×
Key Verses
-
I Chronicles 9:17
The gatekeepers: Shallum, Akkub, Talmon, Ahiman, and their brothers (Shallum was the chief),
This verse establishes Talmon as a chief gatekeeper, highlighting his leadership role in maintaining the sanctuary's order and holiness during the post-exilic restoration.
-
Nehemiah 11:19
Moreover the gatekeepers, Akkub, Talmon, and their brothers, who kept watch at the gates, were one hundred seventy-two.
Here, Talmon is listed among those who kept watch at the gates, illustrating the ongoing commitment of his family to protect the community's spiritual boundaries.
-
Nehemiah 12:25
Mattaniah, Bakbukiah, Obadiah, Meshullam, Talmon, and Akkub were gatekeepers keeping the watch at the storehouses of the gates.
Talmon serves as a gatekeeper for the storehouses, showing that his duty extended beyond the temple entrance to safeguarding the resources of the restored worship community.