### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tᵉlûwnâh**, represented by `{{H8519}}`, means **a grumbling** or **murmuring**. Derived from the root `{{H3885}}` `lûwn` in the sense of obstinacy, it appears **8 times** across **7 unique verses**. This term is used specifically to denote a contentious complaint or expression of discontent.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H8519}}` is used exclusively to describe the complaints of the children of Israel against God and their leaders in the wilderness. God explicitly states that he **hears** their **murmurings** [[Exodus 16:7]]. The text makes a crucial distinction, clarifying that these complaints, though voiced against Moses and Aaron, are ultimately "not against us, but against the LORD" [[Exodus 16:8]]. The Lord identifies the "evil congregation" by their persistent grumbling [[Numbers 14:27]] and acts to "quite take away their **murmurings**" to prevent their destruction [[Numbers 17:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to define the context and severity of **tᵉlûwnâh**:
* `{{H3885}}` **lûwn** (to complain, murmur): As the primitive root of `tᵉlûwnâh`, this verb often appears alongside it, as in "the **murmurings** which they **murmur** against me" [[Numbers 14:27]]. It describes the action of being obstinate in complaint.
* `{{H8085}}` **shâmaʻ** (to hear intelligently): This word is consistently paired with `tᵉlûwnâh`, emphasizing that God does not passively overhear but actively **hears** and considers the Israelites' grumbling ([[Exodus 16:9]], [[Exodus 16:12]]). This intelligent hearing always precedes a divine response.
* `{{H4805}}` **mᵉrîy** (rebellion): This term reveals the underlying sin associated with murmuring. The grumblers are identified as "rebels," and Aaron's rod is kept as a token against them to end their complaints [[Numbers 17:10]], linking `tᵉlûwnâh` directly to **rebellion**.
* `{{H5712}}` **ʻêdâh** (congregation): The act of murmuring is often attributed to the **congregation** as a whole ([[Numbers 14:27]], [[Exodus 16:9]]), highlighting it as a corporate failure rather than just an individual one.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8519}}` is significant, illustrating a critical failure in the relationship between God and Israel.
* **An Offense Against God:** The most important theological point is that **murmuring** is treated as a direct affront to God Himself. Even when the people's anger is directed at Moses, the Lord identifies it as being "against the LORD" [[Exodus 16:8]].
* **Evidence of Rebellion:** The act of grumbling is not seen as an innocent complaint but as the outward expression of a rebellious (`{{H4805}}`) heart. It signifies a rejection of God's authority and provision.
* **Provocation for Judgment and Grace:** God's response to the **murmurings** demonstrates both His judgment and His grace. He hears (`{{H8085}}`) the complaints of the "evil congregation" [[Numbers 14:27]] but also acts to stop the **murmurings** so that the people "die not" [[Numbers 17:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8519}}` **tᵉlûwnâh** is far more than a simple word for complaining. It denotes a spirit of obstinate grumbling that is biblically defined as an act of rebellion against God. The scriptural accounts consistently show that God hears these murmurings, understands their rebellious nature, and responds accordingly. The term serves as a stark illustration of the gravity of questioning God's sovereignty and care.
TRV