תַּעֲלוּלִים (ta.a.lul)
ta.a.lul
caprice
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun ta‘ălûlîm describes a state of wantonness or caprice, appearing only twice in the Old Testament, both within the book of Isaiah. It conveys a sense of arbitrary, vexing behavior that disrupts order and stability. The term is not used for minor whims but points to a more serious, chaotic disregard for established norms.
In its biblical context, this word highlights the instability brought about by divine judgment or moral decay. When Isaiah uses it, he is describing a condition where society loses its footing, acting on impulse rather than principle. This captures a specific kind of social and spiritual disorder that leaves communities vulnerable and confused.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word ta‘ălûlîm paints a picture of society unraveling through caprice rather than wisdom. In Isaiah, it describes leaders who act on impulse, bringing confusion instead of order. This isn't just about bad decisions; it is a deep spiritual drift where people ignore guidance and choose their own fleeting desires.
When we see this in Scripture, it reminds us that stability comes from listening to God, not following our whims. Isaiah 66:4 shows how choosing 'delusions' leads to fear, not freedom. It is a sobering warning against the chaos of self-rule.
Yet, this reality points us back to our need for divine direction. When human wisdom fails and caprice takes over, we are reminded that true peace is found only in those who seek God’s voice. His guidance offers a steady anchor when the world feels unstable.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ wantonness<es>1×
- <in>/ punishments/ their1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וְ/תַעֲלוּלִ֖ים1×
- בְּ/תַעֲלֻלֵי/הֶ֗ם1×
Key Verses
-
Isaiah 3:4
I will give boys to be their princes, and children shall rule over them.
This verse illustrates the practical result of ta‘ălûlîm, where immature and impulsive leadership replaces wise governance, leading to social instability.
-
Isaiah 66:4
I also will choose their delusions, and will bring their fears on them, because when I called, no one answered; when I spoke, they didn’t listen, but they did that which was evil in my eyes, and chose that in which I didn’t delight.”
Here the term connects directly to 'delusions,' showing how willful disregard for God's call results in chosen fears and spiritual chaos.