### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **gᵉlâl**, represented by `{{H1560}}`, is a term denoting something **great**, a quality derived from its weight or size. It appears only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its use is highly specific, describing the massive stones used for the construction of God's house after the exile.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1560}}` is used exclusively within the book of Ezra to describe the materials for the second Temple. In a report to the king, it is noted that the house of the great God is being "builded with **great** stones" [[Ezra 5:8]], a project that is advancing rapidly. Later, a royal decree details the approved construction, specifying "three rows of **great** stones, and a row of new timber" [[Ezra 6:4]], with the expenses to be paid from the king's house.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide a fuller picture of the context in which `{{H1560}}` is found:
* `{{H69}}` **'eben** (a stone): This is the noun that `{{H1560}}` modifies in both of its occurrences. The "**great** stones" form the very substance of the new temple's walls [[Ezra 5:8]].
* `{{H1124}}` **bᵉnâʼ** (to build): This verb describes the action of construction for which the **great** stones are used. The house of God is explicitly said to be "builded" with these materials [[Ezra 5:8]].
* `{{H5073}}` **nidbâk** (row): This term specifies how the **great** stones were to be layered, with the decree calling for "**three** rows" of them [[Ezra 6:4]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H1560}}` is tied directly to the rebuilding of the temple.
* **Reflecting Divine Greatness:** The use of **great** `{{H1560}}` stones to construct the house of the **great** `{{H7229}}` God establishes a physical parallel to a spiritual reality. The impressive nature of the materials is meant to honor the magnificence of the God to whom the temple is dedicated [[Ezra 5:8]].
* **Providential Restoration:** The mention of **great** stones is part of a report on the work's progress and a royal decree authorizing it. This highlights God's sovereignty in using foreign kings to provide for and command the restoration of His sacred space [[Ezra 6:4]].
* **Tangible Symbol of Renewal:** These massive stones serve as a concrete foundation for the renewal of worship in Jerusalem. They represent a permanent and substantial return to the Lord's service after the destruction and exile.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1560}}` **gᵉlâl** is a specific Aramaic adjective that, while appearing only twice, carries significant contextual weight. It moves beyond a simple descriptor of size to connect the physical construction of the temple with the divine greatness of God. Used exclusively in the narrative of the temple's rebuilding, it underscores themes of worship, divine providence, and the tangible restoration of God's people. It demonstrates how even a word for building material can be imbued with theological importance.
TRV