### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **têl**, represented by `{{H8510}}`, refers to a **mound** or **heap**. It is derived by contraction from תָּלַל and appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. While its primary meaning is a pile of ruins or earth, it can also carry an idiomatic sense of **strength**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H8510}}` is used to describe the aftermath of divine judgment or warfare, where a city is reduced to ruins. For example, Joshua made the city of Ai an **heap** forever after its destruction [[Joshua 8:28]]. Similarly, a city that engaged in idolatry was to be burned and made "an **heap** for ever" [[Deuteronomy 13:16]]. The word can also refer to the raised mound on which a city was built, as in the cities that "stood still in their **strength**" [[Joshua 11:13]]. In a prophecy of restoration, the LORD promises that a city will be rebuilt upon its own **heap** [[Jeremiah 30:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the concept of ruin and restoration:
* `{{H8077}}` **shᵉmâmâh** (devastation): This word for **devastation** or **waste** is often paired with `{{H8510}}` to describe the complete ruin of a place, such as when Ai was made "an heap for ever, even a **desolation**" [[Joshua 8:28]].
* `{{H8313}}` **sâraph** (to burn): The creation of a heap is frequently the result of destruction by fire. A city condemned by God was to be **burned** with fire, after which it would become "an heap for ever" [[Deuteronomy 13:16]].
* `{{H5857}}` **ʻAy** (Ai): This place name is directly linked to `{{H8510}}` as the city that Joshua destroyed and "made it an **heap** for ever" [[Joshua 8:28]], serving as a primary biblical example of a city turned into a permanent ruin.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8510}}` is centered on themes of judgment and restoration.
* **Evidence of Judgment:** The transformation of a city into a **heap** serves as a physical sign of divine judgment against sin or enemy nations. Rabbah of the Ammonites was prophesied to become a "desolate **heap**" [[Jeremiah 49:2]].
* **Foundation for Restoration:** While often signifying ruin, the term is also used to represent a foundation for future rebuilding. In a promise to bring again the captivity of Jacob, the LORD declares that "the city shall be builded upon her own **heap**" [[Jeremiah 30:18]].
* **Strength and Fortification:** The idiomatic use of the word for **strength** highlights that these mounds or "tells" were strategic, elevated locations for cities, making them natural strongholds [[Joshua 11:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8510}}` primarily visualizes the end result of destruction, a city reduced to a **mound** of rubble. It carries a heavy sense of judgment and finality. However, its use also extends to depict the very **strength** of a fortified city and, in a powerful reversal, the foundation upon which God promises future restoration.
TRV