### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tâlal**, represented by `{{H8524}}`, is a primitive root that means to **pile up** or **elevate**. It is an exceptionally rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, where it is used to describe something as **eminent**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single occurrence of `{{H8524}}` is found in a prophecy from the Lord GOD in [[Ezekiel 17:22]]. In this passage, God declares His intention to take a tender twig from the top of a high cedar and plant it "upon an high mountain and **eminent**". The word is used to emphasize the prominence and significance of the location God has chosen for this act of divine planting and restoration. It describes a place that is not just physically high, but notably conspicuous and exalted.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the surrounding text help to build the theme of elevation and divine establishment:
* `{{H1364}}` **gâbôahh** (high): This word for **elevated** or **lofty** is used in direct conjunction with `{{H8524}}` to describe the mountain [[Ezekiel 17:22]]. It is also used to warn against human pride, contrasting it with God's perspective [[1 Samuel 16:7]].
* `{{H2022}}` **har** (mountain): This is the object described as eminent. Mountains in scripture are often figurative places of divine revelation, strength, and the establishment of God's kingdom [[Micah 4:1]].
* `{{H730}}` **'erez** (cedar): The twig is taken from a **cedar tree**, which is itself a symbol of height, strength, and majesty [[Psalms 92:12]]. This reinforces the theme of exaltation present in the prophecy.
* `{{H8362}}` **shâthal** (plant): This word, meaning to **transplant**, describes God's action of placing the twig upon the eminent mountain. It signifies a deliberate and purposeful act of establishment [[Psalms 92:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H8524}}` is tied directly to its singular, powerful context in Ezekiel's prophecy.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The word highlights God's sovereign choice to establish His purposes in a place of great prominence. He doesn't just plant, He plants on a mountain that is high and **eminent**.
* **Exaltation of the Humble:** The prophecy involves taking a "tender one" from a treetop and planting it. Using the word **eminent** for its new home illustrates God's power to elevate the seemingly small and weak to a position of unmatched glory and visibility.
* **Kingdom Establishment:** The "eminent" mountain is described as the place where the planted twig will grow into a "goodly cedar" providing shelter for all [[Ezekiel 17:23]]. This points to the future establishment and glory of God's restored kingdom, which will be exalted above all others.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H8524}}` is used only once, its meaning, "to pile up, i.e. elevate," is perfectly captured in its translation as **eminent**. Its sole appearance in [[Ezekiel 17:22]] gives it significant weight, portraying a divinely prepared place of ultimate prominence. The word serves as a descriptor for the exalted stage upon which God will perform His work of sovereign restoration and kingdom establishment.
TRV