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.
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.
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.
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.
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