### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Ṭᵉlâʼîym**, represented by `{{H2923}}`, refers to **Telaim, a place in Palestine**. Its definition is derived from the plural of a word meaning "lambs." This term is highly specific, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H2923}}` is in [[1 Samuel 15:4]], where it serves as a geographical marker for a significant military event. In this verse, King Saul **gathered** the people of Israel and **numbered** them at **Telaim**. This location was the staging ground where Saul assembled an army of two hundred thousand **footmen** and ten thousand **men** of Judah before leading them into battle.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of this single occurrence connects `{{H2923}}` to several important related words:
* `{{H7586}}` **Shâʼûwl** (Saul): Meaning "asked," this is the name of the king who commanded the assembly at Telaim. His actions are central to the narrative in which the place is mentioned [[1 Samuel 17:37]].
* `{{H6485}}` **pâqad** (numbered): This root word means to visit, oversee, muster, or number. It describes the specific action Saul took at Telaim, formally counting his forces for the upcoming conflict [[Genesis 21:1]].
* `{{H5971}}` **ʻam** (people): This term for a congregated unit or troops identifies those who were gathered. It highlights the national scope of the mobilization at Telaim [[2 Chronicles 7:14]].
* `{{H7273}}` **raglîy** (footmen): This word specifies the type of soldier being counted, referring to a footman or soldier on foot. It is used in contexts of counting military strength [[1 Samuel 4:10]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{H2923}}` is a place name without inherent theological meaning, its significance comes from the event it hosted. The mustering at Telaim is a pivotal moment in the history of Israel's monarchy.
* **Royal Mobilization:** Telaim is the site where King Saul exercised his royal authority to gather a massive army, demonstrating the power of the monarchy to unite the people for war [[1 Samuel 15:4]].
* **Prelude to Disobedience:** This gathering immediately precedes the test of Saul's obedience to God's command. The associated context shows that listening to God's voice is more important than offerings or military might [[1 Samuel 15:22]].
* **Human Strength vs. Divine Power:** The verse emphasizes the vast numbers of the army gathered at Telaim. This display of human strength contrasts with the biblical principle that victory comes from God, who can grant it even to a few [[Joshua 23:10]].
### Summary
In summary, **Ṭᵉlâʼîym** `{{H2923}}` is a specific geographical location mentioned once in Scripture. It is remembered as the place where King Saul mustered his army. Though just a place name, its importance is tied to the critical narrative of Saul's kingship, serving as the backdrop for a story about royal authority, military power, and the ultimate necessity of obedience to God.
TRV