ταλιθά

little girl

Definition

Talitha is an Aramaic term transliterated into Greek, meaning 'little girl' or 'maiden.' In its sole New Testament occurrence, it is used by Jesus as a direct, tender address in Mark 5:41 when he raises Jairus's daughter from the dead, saying, 'Talitha cumi' ('Little girl, I say to you, arise'). The word carries a sense of youth and endearment. While its core meaning is straightforward, its use in this specific miraculous context imbues it with a unique significance of restoration and life-giving authority.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Mark 5:41. It is spoken by Jesus in a narrative context of healing and resurrection, specifically during the raising of Jairus's daughter. The usage is direct address, preserving the original Aramaic phrase within the Greek text to capture the intimacy and immediacy of the moment.

Etymology

Ταλιθά (talitha) is a direct transliteration of the Aramaic word טליתא (ṭlīṯā), meaning 'young girl' or 'lamb.' It was adopted into the Greek text of the Gospel of Mark without translation, preserving the exact words Jesus spoke. This reflects the bilingual environment of first-century Palestine and the Gospel writer's intention to record a historically precise and vivid account.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it is part of a key resurrection narrative. Jesus's use of this tender, everyday Aramaic term highlights his personal compassion and authoritative power over death. Understanding that 'Talitha' means 'little girl' enriches the reading of Mark 5:41 by emphasizing the intimacy of the miracle—the Creator and Lord of life speaks to a child with familial gentleness while performing a mighty work, demonstrating that God's power is coupled with deep personal care.

In its original Aramaic setting, 'talitha' was a common, affectionate term for a young girl, similar to 'dear child' or 'little one.' Its use by Jesus would have been immediately recognizable and relatable to the hearers. The Gospel writer's choice to leave it untranslated in the Greek text adds cultural authenticity and dramatic impact, allowing readers to 'overhear' the very words Jesus spoke in a moment of profound compassion and power.

κοράσιον (korasion, G2877) — The more common Greek word for 'little girl' or 'maiden,' used in the parallel account in Matthew 9:24-25. παῖς (pais, G3816) — A broader term meaning 'child' or 'servant,' which can refer to either a boy or a girl.

Word Details

Scripture References