תַּנְחוּם
tan.chum
consolation
Lexicon Entry
Lexicon data from STEPBible TIPNR, Tyndale House, Cambridge. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
What Original Readers Understood
ExploredThe Hebrew word תַּנְחוּם, transliterated as tan.chum, carries the core meaning of "consolation." This concept of providing comfort, solace, or alleviating sorrow is a recurring theme in the Hebrew Bible, appearing 5 times in various contexts. Tan.chum's usage suggests a strong association with emotional support and comfort during times of hardship, loss, or distress. Its presence often coincides with expressions of sympathy, pity, or empathy towards individuals experiencing adversity. This word likely serves as a bridge between emotional acknowledgment and tangible aid, emphasizing the importance of human connection and support during difficult circumstances. As a significant aspect of the Hebrew Bible, tan.chum may indicate the value placed on empathy, compassion, and interpersonal care within ancient Jewish culture. Its limited but meaningful occurrences highlight the importance of emotional support as a vital aspect of human relationships, contributing to a richer understanding of the cultural, social, and emotional dynamics of the time.
Source data & methodology
Occurrences in Scripture
5 total occurrences across the text
Are the consolations of God too small for you, even the word that is gentle toward you?
Job 21:2“Listen diligently to my speech. Let this be your consolation.
Psalms 94:19In the multitude of my thoughts within me, your comforts delight my soul.
Isaiah 66:11that you may nurse and be satisfied at the comforting breasts; that you may drink deeply, and be delighted with the abundance of her glory.”
Jeremiah 16:7Men won’t break bread for them in mourning, to comfort them for the dead. Men won’t give them the cup of consolation to drink for their father or for their mother.