from טָבַל and יָהּ; Jah has dipped; Tebaljah, an Israelite; Tebaliah.
Transliteration:Ṭᵉbalyâhûw
Pronunciation:teb-al-yaw'-hoo
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew proper name Ṭᵉbalyâhûw (`{{H2882}}`) is a compound theophoric name, derived from two distinct elements: the verb ṭābal (טָבַל) meaning "to dip, immerse," and Yāh (יָהּ), a shortened form of the divine name Yahweh. Thus, the name literally translates to "Jah has dipped" or "Yahweh has immersed."
The core meaning of ṭābal involves a complete or partial submersion, often with implications of cleansing, consecration, or identification. In the context of a personal name, the divine agent "Jah" signifies that this "dipping" is an act initiated and performed by God. This suggests a profound divine interaction with the individual, possibly implying divine selection, purification, or a unique endowment for a specific purpose. As a proper noun, its semantic range is tied to the identity of the individual bearing the name, but the etymology offers a rich theological backdrop.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Ṭᵉbalyâhûw (Tebaljah) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of 1 Chronicles:
* **[[1 Chronicles 26:11]]**: "The third, Tebaljah; the fourth, Zechariah; all the sons and brothers of Hosah were thirteen."
This verse is part of a detailed account of the divisions of the gatekeepers and treasurers of the tabernacle/temple during the reign of King David. Tebaljah is identified as the third son of Hosah, a Merarite Levite. The passage meticulously lists the responsibilities and assignments of the Levites, underscoring the highly organized and dedicated service within the sacred precincts. As a gatekeeper, Tebaljah would have been responsible for maintaining order, regulating access to the holy areas, and safeguarding the temple's treasures. His inclusion in this specific lineage and role highlights his participation in the structured worship life of Israel.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the verbal root ṭābal (טָבַל). This root is used throughout the Old Testament in various contexts:
* **Ritual Immersion/Purification**: Frequently refers to dipping in water or blood for purification or consecration, such as a priest dipping his finger in blood ([[Leviticus 4:6]]), or a bird being dipped in running water during a cleansing ritual ([[Leviticus 14:6]]). The act signifies cleansing or setting apart.
* **Symbolic Immersion**: Moses' instruction for Israel to dip their foot in oil ([[Deuteronomy 33:24]]) symbolizes abundance.
* **Practical Immersion**: Naaman dipping himself seven times in the Jordan River for healing ([[2 Kings 5:14]]).
The divine element Yāh (יָהּ) connects Tebaljah to a vast array of other theophoric names in the Hebrew Bible, such as Isaiah ("Yahweh is salvation"), Jeremiah ("Yahweh exalts"), and Nehemiah ("Yahweh comforts"). These names consistently emphasize God's active involvement in the lives of individuals, often reflecting a divine attribute or action.
Tebaljah's role as a gatekeeper also links him to the broader concepts of Levitical service, temple administration, and the sanctity of the divine presence. The gatekeepers were crucial for maintaining the holiness of the sanctuary and ensuring proper conduct within its bounds.
### Theological Significance
The name Ṭᵉbalyâhûw, "Jah has dipped," carries significant theological weight, particularly when considered in conjunction with Tebaljah's role as a Levite gatekeeper.
1. **Divine Selection and Consecration**: The "dipping" by Yahweh can be interpreted as an act of divine selection and consecration. Just as objects or individuals were ritually dipped to be set apart for holy use, Tebaljah may have been divinely "immersed" or designated for his specific service. This underscores the belief that God sovereignly chooses and equips individuals for His purposes, especially those involved in sacred duties.
2. **Purification and Fitness for Service**: Given the frequent association of ṭābal with ritual purification, the name could imply that Yahweh Himself had purified or sanctified Tebaljah, making him fit to serve in the sacred space of the temple. This highlights the necessity of divine cleansing for those who draw near to God in service.
3. **Divine Empowerment and Endowment**: The "dipping" might also symbolize an immersion in divine grace, power, or wisdom, enabling Tebaljah to faithfully execute his important responsibilities as a gatekeeper. His effectiveness in his role would thus be attributed not merely to his own abilities but to God's empowering hand.
4. **Testimony to God's Action**: As a theophoric name, Tebaljah's very identity serves as a perpetual reminder of God's active and personal involvement in his life. It points to God's initiative and sovereignty, rather than human merit, as the source of his standing and service.
### Summary
Ṭᵉbalyâhûw (Tebaljah, `{{H2882}}`) is a Hebrew proper name meaning "Jah has dipped" or "Yahweh has immersed." This theophoric name combines the verb ṭābal (to dip/immerse) with the divine element Yāh (Yahweh). Tebaljah is mentioned once in the biblical record as a Merarite Levite and one of the gatekeepers during King David's reign ([[1 Chronicles 26:11]]). The theological significance of his name suggests divine selection, purification, or empowerment for his sacred duties. It underscores the belief that God actively chooses, consecrates, and enables individuals for His service, reflecting His sovereign hand in the lives of those who minister in His presence.
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