### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **gâlîyl**, represented by `{{H1550}}`, is defined as a valve of a folding door, as it turns, or a ring, due to its roundness. It is a specific term, appearing **4 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning shifts between a "ring" and the "folding" action of a door, based on the context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical applications, `{{H1550}}` describes both ornamentation and architecture. In Song of Solomon, it is used metaphorically to describe a lover's hands as "gold **rings**" [[Song of Solomon 5:14]], emphasizing beauty and value. In the book of Esther, it describes functional "silver **rings**" that, with cords, fastened decorative hangings to marble pillars in the royal court [[Esther 1:6]]. A different application is found in 1 Kings, where it describes the construction of Solomon's temple, specifying that the leaves of the two doors were **folding** [[1 Kings 6:34]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the contexts in which `{{H1550}}` is used:
* `{{H1817}}` **deleth** (door): This word, meaning "something swinging, i.e. the valve of a door," is directly connected to `{{H1550}}` in its sense of **folding** doors in the temple construction [[1 Kings 6:34]].
* `{{H2091}}` **zâhâb** (gold): This term for a precious metal is used to describe the **rings** in the praise of a loved one [[Song of Solomon 5:14]], linking `{{H1550}}` to concepts of beauty and great value.
* `{{H5982}}` **ʻammûwd** (pillar): Meaning a "column" or "stand," this word appears alongside `{{H1550}}` in [[Esther 1:6]], where silver **rings** are fastened to marble pillars, highlighting an architectural and structural context.
### Theological Significance
Though a concrete term, `{{H1550}}` carries conceptual weight in its applications.
* **Value and Beauty:** When used as **rings**, the word is associated with precious materials like "gold" [[Song of Solomon 5:14]] and "silver" [[Esther 1:6]], signifying wealth, royalty, and aesthetic beauty.
* **Architectural Sophistication:** Its use in describing **folding** doors in the temple [[1 Kings 6:34]] and as rings on "pillars" in a palace [[Esther 1:6]] points to advanced craftsmanship and intentional design in significant structures.
* **Functionality:** Whether as an ornamental ring or a door mechanism, `{{H1550}}` denotes an object with a specific, useful purpose, from securing hangings to enabling passage.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1550}}` **gâlîyl** is a precise term derived from the idea of roundness or turning. It functions in scripture as both a "ring" used for decoration and fastening, and as the "folding" quality of a door. Though rare, its occurrences in contexts of love, royalty, and temple construction show how a simple word for an object can illustrate broader themes of value, beauty, and intelligent design.
TRV