### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tᵉphillâh**, represented by `{{H8605}}`, is a term for **prayer**, derived from the root `{{H6419}}` (pâlal). It signifies intercession, supplication, and by implication, a hymn. Appearing **77 times** across **70 unique verses**, it is a central concept for describing direct communication with God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H8605}}` denotes a direct appeal to God. This is often an earnest plea for God to hear, as seen in David's cry, "attend unto my **prayer**" [[Psalms 61:1]]. The term is also tied to specific locations, most notably the "house of **prayer**" [[Isaiah 56:7]], a place where God's eyes are open and his ears attentive [[2 Chronicles 7:15]]. The posture of the one praying is also described, such as Solomon kneeling with his hands spread toward heaven [[1 Kings 8:54]]. The sincerity of the heart is paramount; prayer must be pure [[Job 16:17]] and not from "feigned lips" [[Psalms 17:1]], as God hears the **prayer** of the righteous but finds the **prayer** of the wicked to be an abomination ([[Proverbs 15:29]], [[Proverbs 28:9]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to illuminate the nature and context of prayer:
* `{{H6419}}` **pâlal** (to intercede, pray): This is the root verb from which `{{H8605}}` is derived. It describes the act of praying, as when David found it in his heart to **pray** this **prayer** [[2 Samuel 7:27]].
* `{{H8467}}` **tᵉchinnâh** (supplication, entreaty): This word is frequently paired with `{{H8605}}` to describe a specific kind of prayer—an earnest request for grace or favor. God heard Solomon's **prayer** and his **supplication** [[1 Kings 9:3]].
* `{{H8469}}` **tachănûwn** (earnest prayer, supplication): Similar to `{{H8467}}`, this term emphasizes the intensity of the entreaty. Daniel sought God through **prayer** and **supplications**, with fasting and sackcloth [[Daniel 9:3]].
* `{{H8085}}` **shâmaʻ** (to hear intelligently, listen): This verb is crucial to the concept of prayer, as it signifies God's reception of the appeal. God promises to **hear** from heaven [[2 Chronicles 7:14]] and affirms to Hezekiah, "I have **heard** thy **prayer**" [[2 Kings 20:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8605}}` is significant, highlighting key aspects of the relationship between God and humanity.
* **Divine Audience and Response:** God is addressed as the one "that hearest **prayer**" [[Psalms 65:2]]. Scripture records numerous instances of God hearing and answering, such as His response to Hezekiah's tears and **prayer** [[Isaiah 38:5]]. Conversely, sin can cause God to hide himself or shut out a **prayer** ([[Lamentations 3:8]], [[Lamentations 3:44]]).
* **The Condition of the Worshiper:** The effectiveness of prayer is tied directly to the spiritual state of the individual. The **prayer** of the upright is God's delight [[Proverbs 15:8]], but God will not hear the prayers of those whose hands are full of blood [[Isaiah 1:15]].
* **Prayer as Worship:** `{{H8605}}` transcends mere petition and functions as an act of worship. It is likened to incense and the evening sacrifice [[Psalms 141:2]], and the temple itself is designated a "house of **prayer**" [[Isaiah 56:7]].
* **Physical Expressions of Devotion:** Prayer often involves the whole person. It is frequently accompanied by outward acts of humility and earnestness, including fasting, wearing sackcloth and ashes [[Daniel 9:3]], and the lifting of hands [[Psalms 141:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8605}}` defines a foundational practice of biblical faith. It represents far more than simple requests, encompassing supplication, intercession, and worship. As a bridge between humanity and God, **tᵉphillâh** requires a sincere heart and is presented as a vital, active, and heard communication, central to both personal devotion and the corporate life of God's people.
TRV