### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ṭᵉlâʼ**, represented by `{{H2922}}`, is a specific term for **lamb**. It appears just one time in the entire Bible, but its singular use paints a powerful picture of gentle, protective care. The word's original meaning is thought to be connected to the idea of covering for protection.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H2922}}` is in [[Isaiah 40:11]], where it is used to describe God's tender actions as a shepherd toward His people. In this verse, the Lord is portrayed as one who will feed His flock, gather the **lambs** with His arm, and carry them in His bosom. This context establishes the word as a symbol of vulnerability and dependence, receiving direct and gentle care from the shepherd.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context in [[Isaiah 40:11]] enrich the meaning of `{{H2922}}`:
* `{{H7462}}` **râʻâh** (to tend a flock): This word, used for both "feed" and "shepherd" in the verse, establishes the central metaphor of God's relationship with his people [[Isaiah 40:11]]. The Lord is presented as a personal shepherd [[Psalms 23:1]].
* `{{H6908}}` **qâbats** (to grasp, i.e. collect): This verb describes the specific action of the shepherd toward the lambs, emphasizing his intent to bring them together for safety. The act of gathering is a recurring theme of God's promise to restore His people [[Ezekiel 37:21]].
* `{{H2220}}` **zᵉrôwaʻ** (the arm): The use of the shepherd's "arm" to gather the lambs signifies strength used for protection and tenderness. The arm of the Lord is elsewhere depicted as a source of creative power [[Jeremiah 32:17]] and deliverance [[Deuteronomy 4:34]].
* `{{H5095}}` **nâhal** (to conduct, and (by inference) to protect, sustain): Translated as "gently lead," this word highlights the shepherd's sensitivity to the needs of the entire flock, especially "those that are with young" [[Isaiah 40:11]]. It conveys a sense of careful guidance, as also seen in [[Psalms 23:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2922}}` is concentrated in its single, vivid appearance, contributing to our understanding of God's character.
* **Divine Gentleness:** The image of God gathering **lambs** `{{H2922}}` illustrates His profound tenderness and compassion. He does not drive the weak but carries them personally [[Isaiah 40:11]].
* **Protective Care:** Being gathered by the arm `{{H2220}}` and carried in the bosom `{{H2436}}` signifies a place of ultimate safety and intimacy with God, shielding the vulnerable from harm.
* **Shepherding Heart of God:** The entire scene in [[Isaiah 40:11]], centered on the **lambs**, solidifies the Old Testament theme of God as the Shepherd of His people, who gathers, feeds `{{H7462}}`, and guides them [[Jeremiah 31:10]].
### Summary
In summary, though **ṭᵉlâʼ** `{{H2922}}` is rare, its placement in scripture provides one of the most intimate portraits of God's character. It moves beyond a simple definition of an animal to become a powerful symbol of the gentle, personal, and protective care the Lord extends to the most vulnerable of His flock. The word's singular use in [[Isaiah 40:11]] vividly illustrates the nature of God as the ultimate shepherd.
TRV