מִגְדַּל־אֵל (mig.dal-el)
mig.dal-el
Migdal-el
N:N--LQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N--L
Word Overview
The name Migdal-el, meaning "tower of God," identifies a fortified town located in the territory of Naphtali. It appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, listed among the cities assigned to this tribe in Joshua 19:38. The components of the name are straightforward: migdal denotes a tower or stronghold, while el refers to God, suggesting a place of divine protection or prominence.
Some scholars propose that this location is the same as the Magdala mentioned in the New Testament (Matthew 15:39), often identified with modern Mejdel on the shore of the Sea of Galilee. If this identification holds, it connects an Old Testament land allotment with a site significant in Jesus’ ministry. The name itself reflects a common ancient practice of attributing security and status to divine presence, marking the settlement as a place where God’s power was visibly acknowledged.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Migdal-el translates simply to 'tower of God.' In the ancient world, a tower was not just a building but a place of safety and watchfulness. By naming a town this way, the people acknowledged that their true security came from God, not just stone walls. It is a reminder that we are never alone in our struggles.
Although this specific location appears only once in Scripture, its meaning resonates deeply with Christian faith. We often face situations where we feel exposed or vulnerable. This word invites us to rest in the truth that God is our refuge. His presence provides a stability that human efforts cannot match.
When you read about places like this, remember that God cares about the details of history and geography. He knows every corner of the earth and every heart. You can trust Him to be your strength and protection in every season of life.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ Migdal1×
- El1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וּ/מִגְדַּל\־1×
- אֵ֔ל1×
Key Verses
-
Joshua 19:38
Iron, Migdal El, Horem, Beth Anath, and Beth Shemesh; nineteen cities with their villages.
This verse lists Migdal-el as part of the inheritance for Naphtali, showing how God fulfilled His promise to provide specific places for His people.