קָלָל (qa.lal)
qa.lal
burnished
H:AQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:A
Word Overview
The Hebrew adjective qalal describes a surface that is burnished or polished to a high shine. It appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in Daniel 10:6, where it modifies the appearance of the legs of a heavenly vision. The term evokes the look of refined metal, likely bronze or gold, that has been rubbed and smoothed until it gleams.
Its etymology is uncertain, though some scholars suggest a root meaning related to lightness or rapid movement, perhaps hinting at the swift motion of polishing. In its single scriptural occurrence, the word contributes to the vivid imagery of a divine figure whose physical form radiates an unnatural, metallic brilliance, emphasizing otherworldly purity and power.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word qalal describes a surface that has been polished to a high shine, evoking the gleam of refined bronze or gold. In Daniel’s vision, this term paints a picture of legs like burnished metal, suggesting strength and durability that withstands wear. This imagery helps us see the heavenly figure not as fragile, but as solid and enduring.
When we encounter difficulties, it is comforting to remember that God’s presence is steady and unshakable. The brilliance of the vision points to a purity that does not fade with time. We can trust in a faith that remains bright and clear, even when our own strength feels worn down by daily struggles.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- burnished1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- קָלָ֑ל1×
Key Verses
-
Daniel 10:6
His body also was like beryl, and his face as the appearance of lightning, and his eyes as flaming torches. His arms and his feet were like burnished bronze. The voice of his words was like the voice of a multitude.
This verse uses qalal to describe the legs as burnished bronze, emphasizing the divine figure's stability and radiant power in a terrifying vision.