### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **gâlâl**, represented by `{{H1558}}`, functions adverbially to mean "on account of," "because of," or "for the sake of." It is derived from a root meaning "to roll around," suggesting a circumstance that is rolled from a cause to its effect. This word appears 10 times in 10 unique verses, consistently linking a reason to a corresponding divine action or consequence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H1558}}` establishes a clear cause-and-effect relationship, which can be either positive or negative. For instance, Laban recognizes that the LORD blessed him **for the sake** of Jacob [[Genesis 30:27]], and an Egyptian's house is blessed **for Joseph's sake** [[Genesis 39:5]]. Conversely, the word is used to explain divine judgment. Israel is to be given up **because** of the sins of Jeroboam [[1 Kings 14:16]], and the prophet Micah declares that Zion will be plowed as a field **for your sake** [[Micah 3:12]]. This shows how one's actions can directly result in blessing or punishment for oneself or others.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the causes and effects associated with `{{H1558}}`:
* `{{H1288}}` **bârak** (to bless): This is the positive result often connected to **gâlâl**. God will **bless** those who give generously [[Deuteronomy 15:10]], and He **blessed** the Egyptian's house for Joseph's sake [[Genesis 39:5]].
* `{{H2403}}` **chaṭṭâʼâh** (an offence...sin): This represents a negative cause that brings judgment. Israel's punishment comes **because** of the **sins** of its king [[1 Kings 14:16]].
* `{{H7451}}` **raʻ** (bad or...evil): This word defines the moral condition that invites divine punishment. The LORD pronounces **evil** against Israel and Judah **for** the **evil** they have committed [[Jeremiah 11:17]].
* `{{H8441}}` **tôwʻêbah** (abomination): This points to disgusting moral acts that trigger God's response. The LORD drives out the inhabitants of the land **because** of these **abominations** [[Deuteronomy 18:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1558}}` centers on the principle of causality and accountability in one's relationship with God.
* **Vicarious Consequence:** The word demonstrates that the actions of an individual can have far-reaching effects. Laban's household is blessed on account of Jacob [[Genesis 30:27]], while the entire nation of Judah faces judgment **because** of its king, Manasseh [[Jeremiah 15:4]].
* **Divine Justice:** **Gâlâl** shows that God's responses are not arbitrary. He acts **because** of specific circumstances. He blesses **because** of generosity [[Deuteronomy 15:10]] and he judges **because** of sin and abomination ([[1 Kings 14:16]], [[Deuteronomy 18:12]]).
* **Personal and Corporate Accountability:** The term is applied to individuals, such as when Abram's soul is preserved **because of** Sarai [[Genesis 12:13]], and to entire nations, as when the LORD is angry with Moses **for your sakes** [[Deuteronomy 1:37]], linking the people's actions to their leader's fate.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1558}}` is a crucial adverb that illustrates the direct link between a cause and its consequence. Whether it is a blessing "for the sake of" a righteous individual or a judgment "because of" sin, **gâlâl** reinforces the biblical theme that actions have tangible outcomes. It shows how circumstances are "rolled" from a source, underscoring the profound responsibility individuals and communities have for their conduct before God.
TRV