from גֵּלֶל; dungy; Gilalai, an Israelite; Gilalai.
Transliteration:Gilălay
Pronunciation:ghe-lal-ah'-ee
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word `{{H1562}}` (גִּלֲלַי, *Gilălay*) is a proper noun, identifying an individual mentioned in the biblical text. Its base definition indicates its derivation from `{{H1556}}` (גֵּלֶל, *gelel*), which means "dung" or "excrement." Therefore, the name "Gilalai" can be etymologically understood as "dungy" or "my dung." As a proper name, its semantic range is limited to its function as an identifier of a specific person. The peculiar nature of its etymological root, however, invites deeper reflection on the cultural context and the significance, if any, of such a name. While names often carried aspirational or descriptive meanings, the derivation from a term for waste is notably unusual for a person associated with sacred service.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Gilalai appears only once in the entire Hebrew Bible, specifically in the book of Nehemiah.
* [[Nehemiah 12:36]]: "and his brethren, Shemaiah, and Azarael, Milalai, Gilalai, Maai, Nethaneel, and Judah, Hanani, with the musical instruments of David the man of God, and Ezra the scribe before them."
This verse is part of a detailed account of the dedication of the rebuilt wall of Jerusalem under the leadership of Nehemiah and Ezra. Gilalai is listed among the priests or Levites who were part of the two great thanksgiving choirs that marched on the wall. His specific role, alongside others like Milalai and Maai, involved the use of "musical instruments of David the man of God," indicating participation in the sacred musical liturgy of the dedication ceremony. The context places Gilalai within a community of faithful individuals involved in a significant act of corporate worship and national restoration. Despite the unusual etymology of his name, Gilalai is counted among those who served in a prominent and honorable capacity during this momentous occasion.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word to `{{H1562}}` is its root, `{{H1556}}` (גֵּלֶל, *gelel*), which consistently refers to "dung" or "excrement" in the Old Testament. This root word is often used in contexts of impurity, waste, or contempt. For instance, it appears in phrases like "dung of their sacrifices" ([[Malachi 2:3]]) or "dung of the camp" ([[Exodus 29:14]]). Notably, it is also used in a derogatory sense to refer to idols as "dung-gods" (e.g., [[Leviticus 26:30]], [[Deuteronomy 29:17]]), emphasizing their worthlessness and abhorrence in the eyes of God. The stark contrast between the base meaning of the root and the sacred context in which Gilalai serves highlights a significant tension. Other related concepts include the broader theme of names and their meanings in biblical culture, the role of Levites and priests in temple service, and the dedication ceremonies that marked significant events in Israel's history.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of Gilalai's name and his singular appearance lies primarily in the profound contrast between the humble, even contemptuous, etymology of his name ("dungy") and his honored role in the dedication of Jerusalem's wall. This juxtaposition subtly underscores several theological truths:
1. **God's Inclusivity and Grace:** The presence of an individual named Gilalai among those leading worship demonstrates God's willingness to use all people, regardless of their background, social standing, or even the seemingly ignoble connotations of their names, for His divine purposes. It exemplifies a principle of grace, where worth is not determined by human perception or origin, but by divine calling and service.
2. **Transformation and Redemption:** While not explicitly stated as a transformation of the person, the context implicitly suggests that even something associated with "dung" can be incorporated into a sacred and beautiful act of worship. This resonates with broader biblical themes of God elevating the humble and using the "foolish things of the world to shame the wise" ([[1 Corinthians 1:27]]).
3. **Focus on Service, Not Status:** The inclusion of Gilalai in a list of prominent figures participating in a joyous and reverent ceremony emphasizes that what matters to God is faithful service and participation in His redemptive plan, rather than any perceived human status or the literal meaning of one's name.
### Summary
`{{H1562}}` (גִּלֲלַי, *Gilălay*) is a unique proper noun, identifying an individual whose name etymologically derives from the Hebrew word for "dung." Despite this unusual and seemingly humble origin, Gilalai is recorded in [[Nehemiah 12:36]] as a participant in the solemn and joyful dedication of the wall of Jerusalem, serving among the Levites or priests with musical instruments. The stark contrast between his name's meaning and his sacred role highlights profound theological principles: God's inclusive grace in calling individuals from all backgrounds to His service, and the divine capacity to incorporate even the seemingly insignificant into His redemptive work. Gilalai's brief appearance serves as a quiet testament to the truth that worth in God's kingdom is defined by faithful participation, not by human perception or the connotations of one's birth or name.
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