### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Gâlîyl**, represented by `{{H1551}}`, refers to a specific geographical region known as **Galilee**. Its base definition is a circle or circuit, used specifically for this district in the North of Palestine. The term appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible, consistently designating this important territory.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Biblically, `{{H1551}}` is established as a distinct area within the land of Israel. It is where King Solomon gave twenty cities `{{H5892}}` to Hiram, king of Tyre [[1 Kings 9:11]]. The region is closely associated with the tribe of Naphtali `{{H5321}}`, containing the city of refuge Kedesh `{{H6943}}` within "mount Naphtali" ([[Joshua 20:7]], [[Joshua 21:32]]). Later, this land was conquered by Tiglathpileser of Assyria, and its people were carried into captivity [[2 Kings 15:29]]. The prophet Isaiah refers to it as "Galilee of the nations" in a prophecy concerning affliction and the land beyond the Jordan `{{H3383}}` [[Isaiah 9:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and significance of Galilee:
* `{{H5321}}` **Naphtâlîy** (my wrestling; Naphtali): This tribal territory is the primary location of Galilee. Scripture identifies Galilee as part of "the land of Naphtali" [[2 Kings 15:29]] and places the city of Kedesh "in Galilee in mount Naphtali" [[Joshua 20:7]].
* `{{H6943}}` **Qedesh** (a sanctum; Kedesh): This is a prominent city repeatedly located "in Galilee" ([[Joshua 20:7]], [[Joshua 21:32]], [[1 Chronicles 6:76]]). It was designated as a Levitical city with suburbs `{{H4054}}` and a city of refuge.
* `{{H1471}}` **gôwy** (a foreign nation; hence, a Gentile): This term is uniquely connected to the region in Isaiah's prophecy, which describes it as "Galilee of the nations" [[Isaiah 9:1]], suggesting its position as a border region.
### Theological Significance
The geographical identity of `{{H1551}}` carries significant weight in the Old Testament narrative.
* **Territorial and Legal Identity:** Galilee is an integral part of Israel's tribal allotment, specifically linked to Naphtali. The establishment of Kedesh in Galilee as a Levitical city and a city of refuge demonstrates its incorporation into the religious and civil laws of Israel ([[Joshua 20:7]], [[Joshua 21:32]]).
* **A Zone of Interaction and Conflict:** As a northern border region, Galilee was a site of international exchange, as when Solomon ceded its cities to Tyre [[1 Kings 9:11]]. It was also vulnerable to foreign invasion, as seen in the Assyrian conquest that led to exile [[2 Kings 15:29]].
* **Prophetic Significance:** The region is singled out in prophecy. Isaiah's reference to "Galilee of the nations" [[Isaiah 9:1]] marks it as a place of affliction, yet one of consequence in God's plan.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1551}}` **Gâlîyl** is more than just a name on a map; it represents a well-defined circuit in northern Palestine with a rich history. As the territory of Naphtali, it housed important legal and religious sites like the city of refuge at Kedesh. Its story is one of both covenantal inclusion within Israel and interaction with surrounding peoples, marked by political exchanges, military conquest, and distinct prophetic mention. The term encapsulates the identity of a region central to the history of ancient Israel.
TRV