תַּרְאֲלָה (tar.a.lah)
tar.a.lah
Taralah
N:N--LQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N--L
Word Overview
The name Taralah appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, located in Joshua 18:27 as part of the list of cities assigned to the tribe of Benjamin. Lexical sources identify it as a place name meaning "reeling" or "staggering." This etymology suggests a descriptive origin, perhaps referring to the physical terrain of the settlement or serving as a metaphorical label for its location.
As a proper noun in this context, the word functions primarily as a geographical marker rather than carrying independent theological weight. Its single occurrence anchors it firmly within the narrative of Israel’s territorial division. The meaning "reeling" offers a glimpse into how ancient names might reflect local characteristics or historical impressions, even if the specific reason for this designation is not detailed in the text.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Taralah appears in a single verse within the Hebrew Bible, listed among the cities allotted to the tribe of Benjamin in Joshua 18:27. While its etymology suggests a meaning like "reeling" or "staggering," perhaps describing the terrain or offering a metaphorical label, the text itself uses it simply as a geographical marker. This single mention anchors the name within the broader narrative of Israel’s territorial division, highlighting how specific locations played a role in God's provision for His people.
For your faith, this word reminds us that God pays attention to details. The allocation of land was not random; it involved specific places and communities. Even when a name like Taralah seems obscure or its original significance is unclear today, it reflects the care taken in establishing the inheritance of Israel. This historical record invites us to trust that God’s plans unfold with precision, even in parts of Scripture we may not fully understand.
As you read through these lists, consider how every name and place has a purpose in the biblical story. It is comforting to know that the God who organized the land for ancient Israel is also attentive to the details of your life. You are part of a larger narrative where every element matters, and His guidance remains steady and reliable.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ Taralah1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וְ/תַרְאֲלָֽה\׃1×
Key Verses
-
Joshua 18:27
Rekem, Irpeel, Taralah,
This verse lists Taralah among the cities assigned to Benjamin, showing its role as a specific geographical marker in the tribal inheritance.