### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ṭal**, represented by `{{H2919}}`, refers to **dew**, specifically as it covers vegetation. It appears 31 times across 30 unique verses in the Bible. It functions as a powerful symbol for God's blessing, gentle provision, and life-giving power, though it can also represent that which is fleeting and transient.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical contexts, `{{H2919}}` is frequently associated with divine favor and agricultural abundance. In Isaac's blessing, he asks that God would give the "dew of heaven" as a source of prosperity, alongside corn and wine [[Genesis 27:28]]. This life-sustaining quality is also seen in the wilderness, where dew was connected to the daily provision of manna ([[Exodus 16:13-14]], [[Numbers 11:9]]). Conversely, the withholding of dew is a sign of judgment or a curse, as when Elijah declares a drought [[1 Kings 17:1]] or when David laments over the mountains of Gilboa [[2 Samuel 1:21]]. It is also used as a sign from God, as in the story of Gideon's fleece [[Judges 6:37-40]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illustrate the environment and source of dew:
* `{{H4306}}` **mâṭar** (rain): This word for **rain** is often paired with dew as a primary source of life-giving water from above. The absence of both dew and rain signifies a severe curse [[1 Kings 17:1]], while God's word is compared to both [[Deuteronomy 32:2]].
* `{{H8064}}` **shâmayim** (heaven): As the source of dew, **heaven** is portrayed as God’s domain from which blessings descend. Isaac's blessing specifically requests "the dew of heaven" [[Genesis 27:28]], and in times of judgment, the heaven is "stayed from dew" [[Haggai 1:10]].
* `{{H1242}}` **bôqer** (morning): This term for **morning** is the time when dew is present. The fleeting nature of goodness is compared to the "early dew" of the morning that disappears [[Hosea 6:4]]. It is in the morning that God's provision associated with dew is often found [[Exodus 16:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2919}}` is significant, conveying key truths about God's character and actions.
* **Divine Blessing and Favor:** Dew is a direct metaphor for God's favor. He promises to be "as the dew unto Israel" [[Hosea 14:5]], and a king's favor is described "as dew upon the grass" [[Proverbs 19:12]]. This blessing brings prosperity and life [[Zechariah 8:12]].
* **Resurrection and Renewal:** The most profound use of the term connects it to resurrection. Isaiah states, "for thy dew is as the dew of herbs, and the earth shall cast out the dead" [[Isaiah 26:19]], linking its life-giving properties to the hope of new life.
* **Gentle Divine Influence:** The remnant of Jacob is described as being "as a dew from the LORD" among many peoples [[Micah 5:7]], signifying a quiet, pervasive, and divinely-sourced presence. Similarly, God's speech is said to "distil as the dew" [[Deuteronomy 32:2]].
* **Symbol of Transience:** In contrast, the temporary nature of morning dew is used to illustrate the fleeting character of human faithfulness, which can be like the "early dew it goeth away" ([[Hosea 6:4]], [[Hosea 13:3]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2919}}` moves beyond its literal meaning of moisture on the ground to become a rich biblical symbol. It represents God's sustaining blessing, his refreshing favor, and even the power of resurrection. At the same time, its temporary nature serves as a poignant metaphor for that which is not permanent. The word **ṭal** demonstrates how the natural world is used in scripture to explain the relationship between God and humanity.
TRV