גָּלָל

גָּלָל

dung (as in balls)

Definition

The Hebrew noun גָּלָל (gâlâl) refers specifically to dung, particularly in the form of balls or pellets, as produced by animals. It appears only once in the Old Testament in 1 Kings 14:10, where it is used in a graphic curse against the house of Jeroboam. The word's singular form and specific imagery emphasize a state of degradation and uncleanness. There are no other biblical passages where this word carries a different meaning.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only in 1 Kings 14:10. In this context, the prophet Ahijah delivers a judgment oracle from God against King Jeroboam, declaring that God will 'burn up the house of Jeroboam, as one burns up dung (גָּלָל) until it is all gone.' The usage is metaphorical, employing a vivid image of complete and contemptible destruction. The term is chosen for its visceral, unclean connotations to underscore the severity of divine judgment.

Etymology

The noun גָּלָל (gâlâl) is derived from the root verb גָּלַל (gâlal, H1556), which means 'to roll.' This connection suggests the round, pellet-like form of animal dung. Cognate words from the same root include גַּל (gal, H1530), meaning 'heap' or 'wave,' and גְּלִיל (gᵉlîyl, H1550), meaning 'circuit' or 'region,' both retaining the sense of something rounded or rolled.

Semantic Range

While the word itself denotes a mundane substance, its sole biblical usage carries significant theological weight. In 1 Kings 14:10, it serves as a powerful metaphor within a prophecy of judgment, illustrating God's utter rejection of sin and rebellion among His leaders. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the reading by highlighting the prophetic language's rawness and the complete desolation promised for covenant unfaithfulness. It connects to themes of purification, the consequences of idolatry, and the severity of divine justice. In ancient Near Eastern agrarian society, animal dung was a common substance, often used as fuel once dried. Its mention in a prophetic curse would have been immediately understood as an image of worthlessness, filth, and something to be completely consumed and removed. This cultural understanding amplifies the force of the prophetic condemnation, portraying Jeroboam's dynasty as having no lasting value or honor. צֵאָה (tsêʼâh, H6675) — a more general term for excrement or filth. דֹּמֶן (dōmen, H1828) — manure used as fertilizer; often translated 'dung' in agricultural contexts. פֶּרֶשׁ (peresh, H6569) — dung, specifically of animals; used in contexts of ritual impurity (e.g., Ezekiel 4:15).

Word Details