probably from תָּלָה; it will hang, i.e. be high; Jithlah, a place in Palestine; Jethlah.
Transliteration:Yithlâh
Pronunciation:yith-law'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma H3494, יִתְלָה (Yithlâh), functions as a proper noun, designating a specific geographical location. Its etymological root is most likely derived from the verb תָּלָה (tâlâh) `{{H8518}}`, meaning "to hang, suspend." The base definition provided suggests a passive or descriptive sense: "it will hang," which is further interpreted as "i.e., be high." This derivation points to a semantic range for the place name that implies elevation, prominence, or a location situated on a high point. Therefore, Yithlâh would likely describe a settlement located on a hill, a ridge, or some other elevated terrain, distinguishing it geographically.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word יִתְלָה (Yithlâh) `{{H3494}}` appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of Joshua.
* **[[Joshua 19:42]]**: "and Shaalabbin, and Aijalon, and Yithlah,"
In this solitary occurrence, Yithlâh is listed as one of the cities allotted to the tribe of Dan as part of their inheritance in the Promised Land. The context is a detailed enumeration of the tribal boundaries and the cities contained within them, following the conquest of Canaan. The listing of Yithlâh alongside other known Danite cities such as Shaalabbin and Aijalon firmly places it within the geographical sphere of the tribe of Dan, specifically in the Shephelah or foothills region, which was a contested area between the Israelites and the Philistines. Its inclusion in this precise inventory underscores the meticulous fulfillment of God's promise to Israel regarding their land.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word to יִתְלָה (Yithlâh) `{{H3494}}` is its proposed root, תָּלָה (tâlâh) `{{H8518}}`. This verb carries the core meaning "to hang, suspend, impale." While the direct application of "hanging" might seem unusual for a place name, the derived sense of "being high" or "elevated" (as something that "hangs" above or is "suspended" in a high position) provides a logical connection. This aligns with common ancient Near Eastern practices of naming settlements based on prominent geographical features. Conceptually, Yithlâh is related to the broader themes of tribal inheritance, geographical demarcation, and the divine distribution of land among the twelve tribes of Israel, as detailed in the book of Joshua. Its presence in the text reinforces the systematic and divinely ordained division of the land.
### Theological Significance
As a specific place name appearing only once in a geographical list, the theological significance of Yithlâh `{{H3494}}` is primarily indirect but profound. It serves as a tangible detail within the larger narrative of God's faithfulness to His covenant promises. The precise enumeration of cities like Yithlâh in [[Joshua 19]] demonstrates the meticulous and complete fulfillment of God's word to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob concerning the land of Canaan. The very existence and naming of such a place within the tribal allotments signify the divine sovereignty over the land and the detailed provision for each tribe of Israel. While the name itself ("high" or "elevated") might have simply been a descriptive feature, it subtly speaks to the ordered creation and the divine placement of communities within the promised inheritance. It is a testament to the reliability of God's word and His commitment to His people.
### Summary
Yithlâh `{{H3494}}` is a Hebrew proper noun, a place name derived from the verb "to hang" (תָּלָה `{{H8518}}`), signifying "it will hang" or, more likely in a geographical context, "it is high" or "elevated." It appears uniquely in [[Joshua 19:42]] as one of the cities allotted to the tribe of Dan during the division of the Promised Land. Its inclusion in this detailed inventory underscores the fulfillment of God's covenant promises regarding the land of Canaan and highlights the divine meticulousness in providing for His people. While not bearing direct doctrinal weight, Yithlâh stands as a quiet witness to the faithfulness and order of God's plan for Israel's inheritance.
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