טָעַן (ta.an)
ta.an
to load
H:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:V
Word Overview
The Hebrew verb ta’an means to load or burden, appearing only once in the Old Testament at Genesis 45:17. In this narrative, Pharaoh instructs Joseph to load the brothers’ donkeys with provisions for their journey back to Canaan. The word captures the physical act of placing goods onto an animal for transport, emphasizing the tangible support provided to the family.
Its occurrence is tied directly to the theme of provision and reconciliation in Genesis. By using this specific term for loading, the text highlights the practical care Pharaoh extends to Jacob’s household. The word serves as a concrete detail in the story, showing how political power was used to ensure the safety and sustenance of the travelers.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
In Genesis 45:17, Pharaoh commands Joseph to load the donkeys with provisions for Jacob’s family. This single moment reveals how divine providence often works through practical, physical means. The word 'load' here is not abstract; it describes the tangible act of filling animals with grain and goods, ensuring the family has what they need for their journey home.
For your faith, this reminds us that God’s care is both spiritual and material. He does not leave us without support when we face transitions or hardships. The abundance provided to Joseph’s brothers was a sign of reconciliation and safety, showing that God can use even foreign rulers to bless His people. We can trust that He provides the necessary resources for our own paths.
When you feel burdened by uncertainty, remember this story of provision. God sees your needs and often meets them through concrete help from others or circumstances beyond your control. This assurance allows us to move forward with peace, knowing we are sustained by His faithful care.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- load1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- טַֽעֲנוּ֙1×
Key Verses
-
Genesis 45:17
Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Tell your brothers, ‘Do this: Load your animals, and go, travel to the land of Canaan.
This verse captures the physical act of loading donkeys with provisions, highlighting the tangible support Pharaoh provided for the brothers' journey.