feminine of עֹל; burden; Ulla, an Israelite; Ulla.
Transliteration:ʻUllâʼ
Pronunciation:ool-law'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H5925}}` (עֻלָּא, ʻUllâʼ) is primarily a proper noun, identifying an individual in the biblical text. Its base definition indicates it is derived from the feminine form of `{{H5923}}` (עֹל, ʻol), which signifies a "yoke" or "burden." While the root word `{{H5923}}` carries a rich semantic range encompassing physical yokes, oppressive burdens, and metaphorical weights, `{{H5925}}` itself does not function as a common noun for "burden" in the biblical corpus. Instead, it serves exclusively as a personal name, the meaning of which is etymologically linked to the concept of a "burden" or "yoke." Therefore, its semantic range within the biblical text is limited to its function as an appellation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H5925}}` appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the genealogical lists of the book of Chronicles:
* [[1 Chronicles 7:39]]: "The sons of Ulla were Arah, Hanniel, and Rizia."
In this sole occurrence, Ulla is identified as a descendant of Asher, listed as a son of Ara, and having three sons: Arah, Hanniel, and Rizia. This verse is part of the extensive genealogies found in [[1 Chronicles 7]], which meticulously detail the tribal lineages of Israel. The Chronicler's emphasis on these lists underscores the importance of tribal identity, land inheritance, and the continuity of God's covenant people. As is common with many names in these genealogical registers, no further narrative or biographical details are provided for Ulla. His significance lies in his place within the divinely ordered lineage of Israel, connecting past generations to the present and future. The lack of narrative context means that any understanding of Ulla's life or character must be inferred solely from the etymological root of his name, which points to the concept of a "burden" or "yoke."
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word to `{{H5925}}` is its root, `{{H5923}}` (עֹל, ʻol), meaning "yoke," "burden," or "bondage." This root word is used extensively throughout the Old Testament in various contexts:
* **Literal Yoke:** An implement placed on animals for plowing or drawing loads (e.g., [[Numbers 19:2]], [[Deuteronomy 21:3]]).
* **Figurative Yoke of Servitude/Oppression:** Symbolizing subjugation, slavery, or harsh rule (e.g., [[Genesis 27:40]], [[Leviticus 26:13]], [[Isaiah 9:4]]).
* **Yoke of the Law/Commandments:** Metaphorically representing the demands or discipline of divine instruction (e.g., [[Lamentations 3:27]]).
Other related concepts include:
* **Names as Markers of Identity:** In ancient Israel, names often carried significant meaning, reflecting circumstances of birth, character, or prophetic hope (e.g., Jacob/Israel, Nabal). While Ulla's life is unknown, his name would have conveyed a specific idea to those familiar with its etymology.
* **Burdens in Scripture:** The Bible frequently addresses the theme of burdens, both human (physical, emotional, spiritual) and divine. God promises to lighten burdens ([[Psalm 55:22]]), and believers are called to bear one another's burdens ([[Galatians 6:2]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H5925}}` primarily stems from the profound biblical concept embedded in its etymological root, "burden" or "yoke." While Ulla himself remains an obscure figure, his name serves as a quiet reminder of broader theological truths:
1. **The Reality of Burden:** The name 'Ulla' points to the pervasive human experience of carrying burdens, whether physical toil, emotional distress, or the weight of responsibility. This resonates with the biblical understanding of life in a fallen world, where hardship is inevitable ([[Job 14:1]]).
2. **The Yoke of God's Sovereignty:** The "yoke" can also symbolize submission to a higher authority. While often associated with oppression, the "yoke of the Lord" in prophetic literature (e.g., [[Jeremiah 27:11]]) can represent divine discipline or the path of obedience. In the New Testament, Jesus invites His followers to take His "yoke" upon them, promising that it is "easy" and His "burden" is "light" ([[Matthew 11:30]]), contrasting with the oppressive burdens imposed by human traditions.
3. **Divine Record-Keeping:** The inclusion of Ulla in the detailed genealogies of Chronicles underscores the biblical emphasis on every individual's place within God's grand narrative. Even seemingly minor figures, whose lives are not elaborated upon, are known to God and are part of His meticulous record of His covenant people. This speaks to God's comprehensive knowledge and care for each person, regardless of their historical prominence.
4. **The Meaning of Names:** The practice of naming children with meaningful terms reflects a worldview where identity is deeply intertwined with purpose and destiny. While we cannot know the specific circumstances that led to Ulla receiving this name, it inherently carries the weight of its meaning, inviting contemplation on the nature of burdens and divine providence.
### Summary
`{{H5925}}` (עֻלָּא, ʻUllâʼ) is a proper noun, found only once in [[1 Chronicles 7:39]], identifying an individual within the Asherite genealogy. Its etymological root is `{{H5923}}` (עֹל), meaning "yoke" or "burden." While Ulla is an otherwise unknown figure, the significance of his name lies in this derivation. It serves as a subtle linguistic echo of the pervasive biblical themes of human burdens, the nature of submission to authority (whether oppressive or divine), and the meticulous record of individuals within God's sovereign plan. The name 'Ulla' thus stands as a silent testament to the theological weight carried by even the briefest mentions in the sacred text, reminding us of the profound concepts embedded within the very fabric of biblical language and lineage.
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