טְלָא

טְלָא

a lamb

Definition

The Hebrew noun טְלָא (ṭᵉlâʼ) specifically refers to a young lamb, typically one still nursing or recently weaned. It appears only once in the Old Testament, in Isaiah 40:11, where it describes a vulnerable lamb being tenderly carried by a shepherd. The word emphasizes youth, dependence, and a need for protection. Unlike more general terms for sheep, טְלָא highlights the specific care required for the youngest of the flock.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only in Isaiah 40:11. It occurs in a pastoral metaphor where God is depicted as a shepherd who 'gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart.' The context is one of comfort and divine care following prophecies of judgment, using the image of a shepherd's gentle handling of his most vulnerable animals to illustrate God's tender leadership and protection for his people.

Etymology

טְלָא is likely derived from the root טָלָא (ṭālāʼ, H2921), which carries a sense of covering or protection. This etymological connection suggests the core idea of a lamb being covered or protected, perhaps by its mother or shepherd. It is also compared to the similar word טָלֶה (ṭāleh, H2924), another term for a young lamb, indicating a shared semantic field focused on youth within the flock.

Semantic Range

Though used only once, טְלָא is theologically significant as it provides a powerful image of God's character. In Isaiah 40:11, it contributes to the portrayal of Yahweh as a compassionate shepherd, directly contrasting with the preceding themes of human frailty and divine majesty. Understanding this specific Hebrew term enriches the reading by highlighting the intentional choice of a word for the most helpless member of the flock, underscoring the depth of God's personal, gentle care for the weak and dependent among his people. In ancient Near Eastern pastoral societies, lambs (טְלָא) represented both economic value and vulnerability. They were dependent on the shepherd for protection from predators and for guidance to pasture and water. This cultural reality makes the metaphor in Isaiah 40:11 immediately understandable to the original audience: a good shepherd's diligent care for the lambs was a proverbial example of tender responsibility. טָלֶה (ṭāleh, H2924) — Another term for a young lamb or kid, used more frequently (e.g., Genesis 30:35, 1 Samuel 7:9). כֶּבֶשׂ (kebes, H3532) — A general term for a lamb, often used in sacrificial contexts (e.g., Exodus 12:3). שֶׂה (śeh, H7716) — A broad term for one of a flock, a sheep or goat (e.g., Genesis 22:7).

Word Details