טָמָה

טָמָה

to be impure in a religious sense

Definition

The verb טָמָה (ṭâmâh) means to be or become ritually impure, unclean, or defiled. It is a less common variant of the more frequent verb טָמֵא (ṭāmē', H2930). In its two biblical occurrences, it describes the state of being made unclean, specifically through contact with prohibited animals (Leviticus 11:43) and, metaphorically, being treated as morally or socially vile (Job 18:3). The core meaning revolves around a state of impurity that separates a person or thing from the holy sphere, affecting their ability to participate in worship or community life.

Biblical Usage

This verb is used only twice in the Old Testament. In Leviticus 11:43, it is used in the legal context of the dietary laws, warning the Israelites not to defile themselves by eating certain 'swarming things.' In Job 18:3, Bildad uses the verb metaphorically in a poetic rebuke, asking Job why the friends should be considered 'vile' or 'defiled' in his sight. The usage thus spans from concrete ritual law to figurative, relational language.

Etymology

טָמָה (ṭâmâh) is a collateral or variant form of the primary Hebrew root טמא (ṭ-m-ʾ), meaning 'to be unclean' (H2930). It shares the same essential meaning as its more common counterpart. The root is also connected to the noun טֻמְאָה (ṭumʾâh, H2932), meaning 'uncleanness' or 'impurity.'

Semantic Range

This word is central to the biblical concept of holiness, which requires separation from impurity. Understanding טָמָה enriches reading by highlighting how physical actions (like eating) had spiritual and communal consequences under the Mosaic covenant, defining Israel's identity as a holy people (Leviticus 11:44-45). The metaphorical use in Job 18:3 shows how this language of purity could be applied to social reputation and relationships. In ancient Israelite culture, purity was not primarily about hygiene but about ritual status and fitness to approach the sacred. Being טָמָה meant being in a state that excluded one from the sanctuary and, at times, from normal social interaction. This concept was deeply embedded in their worldview, governing daily life, diet, and worship. טָמֵא (ṭāmē', H2930) — The primary and more frequent verb with identical meaning. טֻמְאָה (ṭumʾâh, H2932) — The noun form meaning 'uncleanness' or 'impurity.'

Word Details