a primitive root; to be complete; but used only as denominative from תָּאוֹם,; to be (causatively, make) twinned, i.e. (figuratively) duplicate or (architectural) jointed; coupled (together), bear twins.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tâʼam**, represented by `{{H8382}}`, is a primitive root used to describe being twinned, duplicated, or jointed. It is defined as to be (causatively, make) twinned, i.e. (figuratively) duplicate or (architectural) jointed. This word appears **6 times** in **4 unique verses**, illustrating its specific and focused meaning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the Bible, `{{H8382}}` is used in two distinct contexts: architectural and poetic. In the book of Exodus, it describes the construction of the Tabernacle, where boards were to be **coupled** together both "beneath" and "above" to form the corners, ensuring a strong, unified structure ([[Exodus 26:24]], [[Exodus 36:29]]). In the Song of Solomon, the word shifts to a figurative meaning, used to describe the beauty and perfection of teeth. They are compared to a flock of sheep where "every one bear **twins**," signifying perfect symmetry with no gaps ([[Song of Solomon 4:2]], [[Song of Solomon 6:6]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illuminate the meaning of `{{H8382}}` in its specific contexts:
* `{{H2885}}` **ṭabbaʻath** (ring): In the architectural instructions for the Tabernacle, the boards are **coupled** "unto one **ring**" [[Exodus 26:24]], identifying the hardware that physically joins the separate pieces into a single unit.
* `{{H7909}}` **shakkûwl** (barren): This word, meaning bereaved or barren, is used as a direct contrast to `{{H8382}}` in Song of Solomon. The perfection of the subject is highlighted by the fact that every one "beareth **twins**, and there is not one **barren** among them" [[Song of Solomon 6:6]].
* `{{H8127}}` **shên** (tooth): This is the subject of the poetic imagery in Song of Solomon. The beloved's **teeth** are described as a flock where every animal has twins, using `{{H8382}}` to paint a picture of perfect, unbroken alignment [[Song of Solomon 4:2]].
### Theological Significance
The applications of `{{H8382}}` point to two primary themes:
* **Structural Unity:** In the Exodus passages, the act of "coupling" components is essential for the integrity of the Tabernacle. It illustrates the principle of joining individual parts to create a single, stable, and complete structure ([[Exodus 26:24]], [[Exodus 36:29]]).
* **Aesthetic Perfection:** In Song of Solomon, the idea of being "twinned" is a metaphor for ideal beauty and completeness. The description of teeth where none are missing, but are perfectly paired like a flock where every ewe "beareth **twins**," conveys a sense of flawless symmetry ([[Song of Solomon 4:2]], [[Song of Solomon 6:6]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8382}}` carries a focused meaning of being paired, twinned, or duplicated. Though used sparingly, it powerfully communicates its meaning in both a literal, architectural sense and a figurative, poetic one. Whether describing the joined boards of the Tabernacle or the symmetrical teeth of a beloved, **tâʼam** signifies wholeness, integrity, and perfection achieved through pairing.
TRV