תּוֹר
a manner (as a sort of turn)
Definition
The Hebrew noun תּוֹר (tôwr) refers to a 'manner' or 'turn,' specifically denoting a particular state, condition, or position in which someone or something is placed. It carries the sense of a prescribed order or a specific arrangement. In its single biblical occurrence in 1 Chronicles 17:17, it describes David's 'estate' or 'condition' as a man elevated by God. The word implies a divinely appointed station or status, not merely a random circumstance.
Biblical Usage
This word is used only once in the Old Testament, in 1 Chronicles 17:17. In this context, King David, reflecting on God's promise to establish his dynasty, marvels at the high 'estate' or 'condition' (תּוֹר) to which God has brought him. The usage is in a royal, covenantal context, highlighting a personal state granted by divine favor.
Etymology
The word תּוֹר (tôwr) is likely derived from or identical to H8447 (תּוֹר), meaning 'to seek out, to spy out, to explore.' This root suggests the idea of 'turning' to inspect or examine, which evolved into the concept of a 'turn' or prescribed order. It is related to the idea of a repeated or customary circuit, hence a manner or condition.
Semantic Range
Though used only once, תּוֹר is theologically significant in its context. It underscores the doctrine of divine election and grace, as David recognizes his royal 'estate' is entirely God's gift, not his own achievement (1 Chronicles 17:16-17). Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the reading of this passage by highlighting David's humility and the sovereign, covenantal action of God in establishing the Davidic line, which points toward the Messiah.
In its ancient Near Eastern context, a person's 'estate' or 'condition' was often seen as fixed by divine or societal order. David's reflection contrasts with typical royal boasts of self-made power, instead attributing his exalted position solely to Yahweh. This aligns with a Israelite worldview that valued humility before God and acknowledgment of His sovereignty over human status.
מִשְׁפָּט (mishpāṭ, H4941) — often 'judgment' or 'ordinance,' referring to a legal ruling or established custom, whereas תּוֹר focuses on a personal condition or turn of affairs. דֶּרֶךְ (derek, H1870) — 'way, path, journey,' denoting a course of life or action, broader than the specific status implied by תּוֹר.
Word Details
How this works
Hebrew definitions are from Brown-Driver-Briggs (1906) and Strong's Exhaustive Concordance (1890), both public domain. BDB was groundbreaking for its era but reflects 19th-century assumptions about Semitic etymology. Modern scholarship (HALOT, DCH) has revised many entries. Use these definitions as a starting point for exploration, not as the final word on a term's meaning in context.
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