from the same as חָרְגֹּל; oppressive; Talmon, a temple doorkeeper; Talmon.
Transliteration:Ṭalmôwn
Pronunciation:tal-mone'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The lemma טַלְמוֹן (Ṭalmôwn, `{{H2929}}`) is a proper noun, specifically a masculine personal and family name. Its base definition links it etymologically to a root that suggests "oppressive," possibly derived from the same root as חָרְגֹּל (ḥargol, `{{H2778}}`), which refers to a type of locust, implying a burdensome or destructive quality. However, in its biblical usage, this etymological meaning largely recedes, and the name functions solely to identify individuals and a family line. The primary semantic range is therefore limited to its identity as "Talmon," specifically noted as a "temple doorkeeper."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Talmon appears consistently in the Hebrew Bible in contexts related to temple service, specifically identifying a family of doorkeepers or gatekeepers.
* In [[1 Chronicles 9:17]], Talmon is listed among the doorkeepers of the tabernacle, alongside Akkub and Ahiman, indicating their established role in the pre-exilic period. This verse explicitly states their function: "the gatekeepers were Shallum, Akkub, Talmon, Ahiman, and their brethren."
* Following the Babylonian exile, descendants of Talmon are mentioned among those who returned to Jerusalem and resumed their ancestral duties. [[Ezra 2:42]] lists "the sons of the gatekeepers: the sons of Shallum, the sons of Ater, the sons of Talmon, the sons of Akkub, the sons of Hatita, the sons of Shobai, in all one hundred thirty-nine." This demonstrates the continuity of their specific service.
* A parallel account is found in [[Nehemiah 7:45]], where the same group of gatekeepers' descendants, including Talmon's, are enumerated, reinforcing their presence and role in the post-exilic community.
* Finally, [[Nehemiah 11:19]] further specifies their dwelling place and ongoing function: "And Akkub, Talmon, and their brethren who kept watch at the gates, were one hundred seventy-two." This verse underscores their active role in guarding the gates of Jerusalem, likely including those of the Temple complex.
Across these occurrences, Talmon is consistently identified with the crucial Levitical role of a gatekeeper, responsible for security, access control, and order within sacred spaces.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary concept related to Talmon is the role of **doorkeepers** or **gatekeepers** (שֹׁעֲרִים, *sho'arim*). This was a specialized function within the Levitical service, distinct from the priests but equally vital for the proper functioning of the Temple. Other individuals and families frequently mentioned alongside Talmon in this capacity include Akkub, Shallum, and Hatita. Their duties extended beyond merely opening and closing gates; they were responsible for maintaining order, preventing unauthorized access, and sometimes guarding the temple treasuries. This service is intrinsically linked to the broader concept of **Levitical service** and the **Temple cult**, highlighting the structured and dedicated nature of worship in ancient Israel. While the etymological root of "oppressive" might seem unrelated to a gatekeeper's role, one could speculate that it might refer to the strictness required in their duties, or perhaps the burden of responsibility. However, the biblical text does not elaborate on this etymological link in relation to Talmon's character or function.
### Theological Significance
The consistent portrayal of Talmon as a temple doorkeeper carries significant theological weight.
1. **Faithfulness in Humble Service:** The role of a doorkeeper, while not as prominent as that of a priest, was indispensable for the sanctity and order of the Temple. Talmon's recurring mention highlights the divine value placed on every form of service within God's house, demonstrating that faithfulness in seemingly humble tasks is highly esteemed by God.
2. **Guardians of Sanctity and Order:** The gatekeepers were responsible for maintaining the holiness of the sacred space, ensuring that only the ritually clean and authorized individuals entered. This reflects God's demand for order and purity in worship and His presence. Their vigilance prevented profanation and chaos.
3. **Continuity of Covenant Service:** The return of Talmon's descendants from exile and their resumption of duties underscores God's faithfulness to His covenant and His meticulous preservation of those dedicated to His service. It demonstrates the enduring nature of the Levitical appointments and the importance of continuity in the divine economy of worship.
4. **God's Providence and Restoration:** The post-exilic lists, including Talmon's family, are a testament to God's providential hand in restoring His people and re-establishing the Temple service after a period of judgment and exile. It signifies hope and the rebuilding of spiritual life.
### Summary
Talmon (טַלְמוֹן, `{{H2929}}`) is a proper name primarily associated with a specific family of temple doorkeepers or gatekeepers in ancient Israel. Despite an etymological root suggesting "oppressive," its biblical usage consistently identifies individuals and their descendants who held a crucial Levitical role in safeguarding the sanctity and order of the Tabernacle and later the Temple. Occurrences in [[1 Chronicles 9:17]], [[Ezra 2:42]], [[Nehemiah 7:45]], and [[Nehemiah 11:19]] consistently place Talmon among those responsible for the Temple gates. Theologically, the study of Talmon highlights the profound importance of faithful service in all aspects of God's house, the divine imperative for order and sanctity in worship, and God's enduring faithfulness in preserving and restoring those dedicated to His covenant purposes.
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