### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma תַּרְאֲלָה (Tarʼălâh), Strong's number H8634, is primarily a proper noun, designating a specific geographical location. Its base definition indicates it is "probably for תַּרְעֵלָה (Tarʻēlâh)." The root תַּרְעֵלָה (Tarʻēlâh), `{{H8633}}`, itself means "reeling" or "staggering," deriving from the verb רָעַל (raʻal), `{{H7477}}`, "to reel, stagger, tremble." Thus, the etymological meaning of Tarʼălâh suggests a place associated with the concept of "reeling" or "staggering," perhaps implying a difficult terrain, a place of disorientation, or a site linked to an event causing such a state. However, in its biblical usage, its semantic range is restricted to its function as a place name, without explicit textual elaboration on its etymological significance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word תַּרְאֲלָה (Tarʼălâh) occurs only once in the Hebrew Bible, in [[Joshua 18:27]].
In this verse, Tarʼălâh is listed as one of the cities within the tribal allotment of Benjamin. The passage reads: "And Zelah, Haeleph, and Jebusi, which is Jerusalem, Gibeath, and Kirjath; fourteen cities with their villages. This is the inheritance of the children of Benjamin according to their families." Tarʼălâh is situated among other known cities, indicating its place within the geographically defined boundaries of the Benjaminite territory. The context is purely descriptive, detailing the precise fulfillment of God's promise to Israel regarding the land. There is no narrative or theological commentary attached to the city of Tarʼălâh itself; it is simply part of a comprehensive list designed to delineate the tribal inheritances.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relation to תַּרְאֲלָה (Tarʼălâh) is תַּרְעֵלָה (Tarʻēlâh), `{{H8633}}`, which signifies "reeling" or "staggering." This root concept of "reeling" or "staggering" is often used metaphorically in the Old Testament to describe states of physical or spiritual disorientation, weakness, or the effects of divine judgment (e.g., [[Isaiah 24:20]], [[Psalm 60:3]]). However, it is crucial to note that while the place name Tarʼălâh shares this etymological root, the biblical text does not apply this metaphorical meaning to the city itself. Concepts related to the context of H8634 include tribal inheritance, land distribution, and geographical boundaries, which are central themes in the book of Joshua.
### Theological Significance
As a proper noun appearing only once in a list of cities, תַּרְאֲלָה (Tarʼălâh) does not carry independent theological significance beyond its contribution to the larger narrative of God's faithfulness. Its inclusion in [[Joshua 18:27]] underscores the meticulous and divinely ordered process of land allocation among the tribes of Israel. This detailed accounting demonstrates God's precision in fulfilling His covenant promises made to Abraham regarding the land ([[Genesis 12:7]], [[Genesis 15:18]]). The very act of naming and listing each city, however obscure, testifies to the divine sovereignty over the land and the fulfillment of the covenant. While its etymological root ("reeling") might evoke images of instability, the inclusion of Tarʼălâh within the secure boundaries of Benjamin's inheritance paradoxically points to the stability and certainty of God's provision for His people.
### Summary
תַּרְאֲלָה (Tarʼălâh), `{{H8634}}`, is a unique Hebrew proper noun, occurring solely in [[Joshua 18:27]]. It designates a city within the tribal allotment of Benjamin. While its etymological root suggests a meaning of "reeling" or "staggering" (related to `{{H8633}}`), this meaning is not explicitly applied to the place in the biblical text. Its primary significance lies in its role as an integral part of the detailed record of Israel's inheritance of the Promised Land, serving as a testament to God's precise fulfillment of His covenant promises and the orderly establishment of His people within their divinely appointed territory.
TRV