from an unused root meaning to range in a regular manner; a row; hence, a wall; row.
Transliteration:ṭûwr
Pronunciation:toor
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H2905}}` (ṭûwr) derives from an unused root implying a regular, ordered arrangement or progression. Its primary semantic range encompasses the concrete notion of a "row," signifying a linear sequence or series of objects. This fundamental meaning extends naturally to "a wall," particularly one constructed from rows of stones or bricks. Thus, ṭûwr conveys a sense of structured arrangement, whether as an ordered line of items or a solid, constructed barrier. The emphasis is on regularity, sequence, and the formation of a distinct boundary or structure through such ordering.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H2905}}` appears primarily in contexts describing architectural elements or ritual arrangements, underscoring its core meaning of order and structure:
* **Ritual Arrangement:** In [[Leviticus 24:6]], ṭûwr is used to describe the "rows" of showbread arranged on the pure table in the Tabernacle. This highlights the precise, ordered nature of worship and the sacred space, reflecting divine instruction for ritual purity and arrangement.
* **Architectural Construction:** Multiple occurrences in 1 Kings describe the construction of Solomon's Temple and palace. [[1 Kings 6:36]] and [[1 Kings 7:12]] refer to "rows" of hewn stones and cedar beams used for the inner and great courts, respectively, emphasizing the meticulous craftsmanship and structured grandeur of these sacred and royal edifices. Similarly, [[1 Kings 7:2]] speaks of "rows" of cedar pillars, and [[1 Kings 7:3]] mentions "rows" of chambers, all contributing to the image of a massive, well-ordered, and stable structure.
* **Figurative "Wall":** A poignant metaphorical use is found in [[Lamentations 3:9]], where the prophet laments, "He has walled up my ways with hewn stones; He has made my paths crooked." Here, ṭûwr takes on the meaning of a "wall" or barrier, signifying divine judgment that obstructs and confines, preventing movement or escape. This illustrates the word's capacity to denote not only physical structure but also an impenetrable obstacle.
* **Temple Vision:** In [[Ezekiel 46:23]], within the vision of the new temple, ṭûwr describes "rows" of stones for cooking places, again denoting orderly arrangement within a sacred, divinely ordained structure.
Across these contexts, ṭûwr consistently points to an intentional, regular arrangement, whether for worship, habitation, or as a symbol of divine action.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept embedded in `{{H2905}}` resonates with several related Hebrew terms and theological concepts:
* **Order and Arrangement:** The unused root's meaning of "to range in a regular manner" connects to broader biblical themes of divine order (e.g., creation accounts in Genesis 1) and human responsibility for maintaining order. Related Hebrew words include `{{H6186}}` ('arak, "to set in order, arrange") and `{{H4639}}` (ma'arakah, "arrangement, battle array"), though ṭûwr specifically emphasizes the physical manifestation of such order as a "row" or "wall."
* **Walls and Boundaries:** As a "wall," ṭûwr shares semantic space with terms like `{{H2346}}` (chomah, "city wall") and `{{H1444}}` (gader, "fence, wall"). While chomah often refers to a city's defensive perimeter and gader to a protective enclosure, ṭûwr as a wall emphasizes the construction from distinct, ordered units (rows of stones), often within a building rather than a surrounding city. In [[Lamentations 3:9]], its function as a barrier aligns with the restrictive aspect of walls.
* **Craftsmanship and Structure:** The repeated use in architectural descriptions aligns ṭûwr with concepts of skilled labor, design, and the creation of enduring structures, particularly those dedicated to God.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H2905}}` is found primarily in its concrete applications, which reflect deeper spiritual truths:
* **Divine Order and Design:** The frequent use of ṭûwr in descriptions of the Tabernacle and Temple underscores God's preference for order, precision, and beauty in worship and sacred spaces. The ordered "rows" of showbread or hewn stones reflect a divine blueprint for holiness and proper reverence. This suggests that the physical arrangement of sacred objects and structures is not arbitrary but contributes to the glory and accessibility of God.
* **Stability and Permanence:** The architectural "rows" of the Temple signify stability, strength, and permanence. These structures, built with meticulous care, were meant to endure as dwelling places for God's presence and centers of worship, reflecting the enduring nature of God's covenant and promises.
* **Divine Sovereignty and Judgment:** The metaphorical "wall" in [[Lamentations 3:9]] is a powerful theological statement about God's sovereign control, even over suffering and confinement. It portrays divine judgment not as chaotic destruction but as a deliberate, structured barrier, indicating that God's actions, even disciplinary ones, are purposeful and ordered. This suggests that even in affliction, there is a divine hand at work, shaping circumstances.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H2905}}` (ṭûwr), meaning "row" or "wall," fundamentally conveys the concept of an ordered, linear arrangement derived from a root suggesting regularity. Biblically, it is most frequently encountered in descriptions of architectural structures, particularly the Temple and Solomon's palace, where it denotes the meticulous "rows" of stones and beams that comprise these grand edifices. Its use in the context of the Tabernacle's showbread highlights an ordered ritual arrangement. Poignantly, it can also signify a "wall" or barrier, as seen in [[Lamentations 3:9]], representing confinement or divine obstruction. Theologically, ṭûwr speaks to God's inherent desire for order, precision, and beauty in worship and sacred spaces, reflecting divine design. It also implicitly points to the stability and permanence of God's dwelling and, in its "wall" sense, to the structured nature of divine judgment. Thus, ṭûwr offers insight into the ordered reality, both physical and spiritual, within the biblical narrative.
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