תְּלַת (te.lat)
te.lat
third
A:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- A:N-M
Word Overview
The Aramaic word te-lat functions as a numeral meaning "third," referring to one of three parts or items in a sequence. It appears exclusively in the Book of Daniel, reflecting the linguistic shift toward Imperial Aramaic in that section of Scripture. The term serves a straightforward descriptive role, marking specific portions of time or groups without added metaphorical weight.
Its usage is limited but precise, appearing in two key verses to denote chronological order. In Daniel 4:16, it specifies the duration of King Nebuchadnezzar’s madness, while in Daniel 8:20, it helps identify one of three distinct entities within a symbolic vision. The word is etymologically linked to the Hebrew shlishi, sharing the same root for counting or ordering.
Translators consistently render te-lat as "third" to maintain clarity in these numerical contexts. Because it occurs only twice and always in literal sense, it does not carry complex theological nuances beyond its mathematical function. It simply anchors the narrative in a specific temporal or structural framework for the reader.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word te-lat simply means "third." In Scripture, numbers often carry weight beyond their mathematical value. When Daniel is promised a place as the third ruler, it signals a specific shift in authority and destiny. This precise ordering reminds us that God works within clear structures, even when human kingdoms seem chaotic.
For your daily life, this precision offers comfort. You do not need to guess your place or try to force outcomes. God’s plans unfold in their own time and order. Whether you are waiting for a promotion, healing, or clarity, trust that He is arranging the pieces exactly as needed.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- third/ the1×
- and/ third/ the1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- תַּלְתָּ֖/א1×
- וְ/תַלְתָּ֥/א1×
Key Verses
-
Daniel 5:16
But I have heard of you, that you can give interpretations and dissolve doubts. Now if you can read the writing and make known to me its interpretation, you shall be clothed with purple, and have a chain of gold around your neck, and shall be the third ruler in the kingdom.”
This verse establishes the promise of elevated status, showing how God uses specific numerical order to confirm His sovereign choice over human affairs.
-
Daniel 5:29
Then Belshazzar commanded, and they clothed Daniel with purple, and put a chain of gold about his neck, and made proclamation concerning him, that he should be the third ruler in the kingdom.
The fulfillment of this decree highlights the sudden and absolute nature of divine judgment, where earthly power is redistributed instantly according to God's word.