### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The word **talithá** `{{G5008}}`, of Chaldee origin, is a specific term for a **young girl** or maiden. It appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making its single occurrence highly significant. The definition points to freshness and youth, captured in the simple address, "O maiden."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{G5008}}` is spoken directly by Jesus in a moment of miraculous healing. The Aramaic phrase "Talitha cumi" is preserved in the text and immediately interpreted. In the narrative, Jesus takes a young girl, referred to as a **damsel** `{{G3813}}`, by the hand and commands her to rise [[Mark 5:41]]. This usage highlights the term's direct and personal nature as an address to a young female. The text itself provides the translation, clarifying its meaning for the reader: "Damsel, I say unto thee, arise" [[Mark 5:41]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the singular use of **talithá**:
* `{{G2891}}` **koûmi**: Also of Chaldee origin, this word means **"cumi (i.e. rise!)"**. It is the direct companion to **talithá** in the command "Talitha cumi" [[Mark 5:41]], forming the complete Aramaic phrase spoken by Jesus.
* `{{G2877}}` **korásion**: Defined as **"a (little) girl"**, this is the Greek word used to interpret **talithá** in the same verse. The text explicitly states that **talithá** is interpreted as **Damsel** `{{G2877}}`, linking the two terms directly [[Mark 5:41]].
* `{{G1453}}` **egeírō**: Meaning **"to waken... rouse... raise"**, this word represents the action commanded. It is the Greek translation of "cumi" in the phrase "Damsel, I say unto thee, arise" [[Mark 5:41]], signifying the power to bring someone from disease or death back to life.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of `{{G5008}}` carries significant theological weight, illustrating key aspects of Jesus's ministry and power.
* **The Power of the Spoken Word:** The phrase "Talitha cumi" is a direct, creative command. The preservation of the original Aramaic emphasizes the authority in Jesus's speech, which brings life from death [[Mark 5:41]]. The command is immediately followed by the girl's rising.
* **Personal Compassion:** By using a gentle address like **talithá** ("young girl"), Jesus demonstrates personal tenderness in the midst of a powerful miracle. He doesn't just issue a decree but speaks directly and gently to the child.
* **Foreshadowing Resurrection:** The command to "arise" `{{G1453}}` connects this personal healing to the central theme of resurrection. The same word, **egeírō**, is used to describe God raising Jesus from the dead [[Romans 10:9]] and the future quickening of mortal bodies [[Romans 8:11]], highlighting that the power displayed here is the same power that overcomes death itself.
### Summary
In summary, **talithá** `{{G5008}}` is more than just a translated Aramaic word. It is a moment captured in scripture that encapsulates divine power and personal compassion. Its single occurrence in [[Mark 5:41]] is memorable for preserving the very words of Jesus in a miracle of healing. It demonstrates that the authority to command life to "arise" `{{G1453}}` is wielded with the tenderness of a direct address to a "young girl," offering a profound glimpse into the nature of Christ's power over death.
TRV