תְּלִי (te.li)
te.li
quiver
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun tali refers specifically to a quiver, the container used to hold arrows for an archer. In the biblical text, this word carries a concrete physical sense, describing the vessel itself often as it hangs from the shoulder of a warrior or hunter.
Its sole occurrence in Scripture appears in Genesis 27:3, where Isaac instructs his son Esau to take his equipment for hunting. The command to "put on your quiver" highlights the practical gear needed for the task, grounding the narrative in the tangible realities of ancient life rather than abstract concepts.
While the word does not appear elsewhere in the biblical canon, its presence in this specific context underscores the importance of preparation and readiness. It serves as a brief but vivid detail that anchors the story of deception and blessing in the everyday objects of the patriarchal era.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word for "quiver" appears only once in Scripture, found in Genesis 27:3. Here, Isaac asks Esau to take his bow and quiver to hunt for food. This single mention grounds the biblical narrative in the physical reality of ancient life. It reminds us that God’s stories often unfold through ordinary tools and daily tasks.
While we do not use bows and arrows today, the image of a prepared warrior offers a gentle lesson. Preparation is not merely about survival; it is about readiness to act when called. In our own lives, this can mean gathering the resources, skills, or spiritual strength needed for the challenges ahead.
Consider how you prepare for important moments in your life. Whether it is a difficult conversation or a new responsibility, having what you need allows you to focus on the task at hand. This verse invites us to trust that God provides the necessary tools for our journey.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- quiver/ your1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- תֶּלְיְ/ךָ֖1×
Key Verses
-
Genesis 27:3
Now therefore, please take your weapons, your quiver and your bow, and go out to the field, and get me venison.
This is the only occurrence of the word, where Isaac instructs Esau to take his quiver as part of his hunting gear.