### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Gilgâl**, represented by `{{H1537}}`, refers to a significant location in Palestine. It appears 41 times across 39 unique verses, marking its importance in Israel's history as a site of memorial, kingship, and, eventually, religious apostasy. The name itself is tied to the concept of rolling something away.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1537}}` serves as a pivotal location. It was Israel's first **encampment** `{{H2583}}` after crossing the Jordan [[Joshua 4:19]], where Joshua **pitched** `{{H6965}}` twelve memorial stones [[Joshua 4:20]]. The place was named when the LORD **rolled away** `{{H1556}}` the reproach of Egypt [[Joshua 5:9]]. It functioned as a military camp for Joshua [[Joshua 10:7]] and was a site of covenant renewal, where the **passover** `{{H6453}}` was kept [[Joshua 5:10]]. Later, the people **made Saul king** `{{H4427}}` at Gilgal [[1 Samuel 11:15]]. However, it also became a place of failure and judgment, as when Saul offered an unlawful sacrifice [[1 Samuel 13:12]] and where Samuel **hewed** `{{H8158}}` Agag in pieces [[1 Samuel 15:33]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the events at Gilgal:
* `{{H1556}}` **gâlal**: This primitive root, meaning **to roll (literally or figuratively)**, is the direct source for the name Gilgal, as God declared He had "rolled away" Israel's reproach [[Joshua 5:9]].
* `{{H6586}}` **pâshaʻ**: This root, meaning **to break away (from just authority), i.e. trespass**, describes Gilgal's later spiritual state, where the prophet Amos sarcastically told Israel to go to Gilgal and **multiply** `{{H7235}}` transgression [[Amos 4:4]].
* `{{H4427}}` **mâlak**: Meaning **to reign** or **set a king**, this word connects Gilgal to the establishment of the Israelite monarchy, as it was where the people made Saul **king** [[1 Samuel 11:15]] and where Samuel intended to **renew** `{{H2318}}` the kingdom [[1 Samuel 11:14]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative weight of `{{H1537}}` is significant, charting a course from holiness to corruption.
* **Covenant Landmark:** As the first campsite in Canaan, Gilgal symbolizes a new beginning. The name itself signifies the "rolling away" of the reproach of Egypt, marking a definitive break from bondage and a fresh start with God [[Joshua 5:9]]. It is a place of remembrance for God's righteous acts [[Micah 6:5]].
* **Decline into Apostasy:** The history of Gilgal serves as a cautionary tale. It begins as a place of sacred worship but is later condemned as a center for **iniquity** `{{H205}}` and empty sacrifices, where the LORD **hated** `{{H8130}}` their wickedness ([[Hosea 9:15]], [[Hosea 12:11]]). The prophets warn Israel not to **enter** `{{H935}}` Gilgal, for it will come to **nought** `{{H205}}` [[Amos 5:5]].
* **Throne and Judgment:** The location is intrinsically linked to Israel's monarchy. It is where the people made Saul **king** [[1 Samuel 11:15]] and where his disobedience caused Samuel to **arise** `{{H6965}}` and depart from him [[1 Samuel 13:15]], prefiguring the loss of his kingdom.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1537}}` is far more than a geographical point. It embodies the highs and lows of Israel's journey with God. From the monumental act of **rolling** `{{H1556}}` away Egypt's shame to its later condemnation as a hub of **transgression** `{{H6586}}`, Gilgal serves as a powerful biblical illustration of covenant, kingship, obedience, and the severe consequences of apostasy.
TRV