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."
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.
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.
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.
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.
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