### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Galʻêd**, represented by `{{H1567}}`, means **heap of testimony**. It appears 2 times in 2 unique verses. The name is a compound word derived from **gal** `{{H1530}}`, meaning a heap of stone, and **ʻêd** `{{H5707}}`, meaning testimony or witness. It specifically refers to the memorial cairn raised by Jacob and Laban east of the Jordan River.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two appearances of `{{H1567}}` occur in the same narrative context, describing the covenant made between Jacob and Laban. After a period of conflict, they agree to separate peacefully. As a marker of their pact, they create a heap of stones. Jacob, speaking Hebrew, **called** `{{H7121}}` the place **Galeed** [[Genesis 31:47]]. Laban, speaking Aramaic, gave it the equivalent name **Yᵉgar Sahădûwthâʼ** `{{H3026}}`. Laban then declares the purpose of the heap, stating, "This heap is a witness between me and thee this day. Therefore was the name of it called **Galeed**" [[Genesis 31:48]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are central to understanding the meaning and context of **Galeed**:
* `{{H1530}}` **gal** (heap): This word, meaning "something rolled, i.e. a heap of stone," describes the physical object that was created. It is the tangible foundation of the memorial.
* `{{H5707}}` **ʻêd** (witness): This term, meaning "testimony" or "witness," defines the purpose of the heap. It was not merely a pile of rocks but an object intended to bear witness to the agreement.
* `{{H3026}}` **Yᵉgar Sahădûwthâʼ** (heap of the testimony): This is the Aramaic name Laban gives the cairn, showing a direct linguistic parallel to the Hebrew **Galeed** and highlighting the different origins of the two men involved in the covenant [[Genesis 31:47]].
* `{{H3290}}` **Yaʻăqôb** (Jacob): As the Israelitish patriarch, his act of naming the location **Galeed** solidifies its significance within the Hebrew narrative [[Genesis 31:47]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1567}}` is tied to the concept of covenant and memory.
* **Covenant Witness:** The **Galeed** serves as a permanent, physical witness to a solemn vow. The heap itself stands as an inanimate testimony to the promises made between Jacob and Laban, a practice that underscores the gravity of the pact [[Genesis 31:48]].
* **The Act of Naming:** The event highlights the biblical importance of a **name** `{{H8034}}`. By **calling** `{{H7121}}` the place **Galeed**, Jacob defines its function and memorializes the event for future generations.
* **A Memorial in Time:** Laban specifies that the heap is a witness "this **day**" `{{H3117}}`, establishing a fixed point in time when the covenant was made. This act of creating a physical memorial ensures that the event and its obligations are not forgotten over time.
### Summary
In summary, **Galeed** `{{H1567}}` is not simply a geographical name but a rich theological concept captured in a single term. It perfectly fuses the physical object—a **heap** `{{H1530}}` of stones—with its sacred purpose as a **testimony** `{{H5707}}`. Occurring at a pivotal moment between Jacob and Laban, it represents the power of a covenant memorialized in the landscape itself, serving as an enduring witness to their solemn agreement.
TRV