Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Significance:Teth (טֵ) is the ninth letter of the Hebrew alphabet and holds significant value in biblical literature, particularly in the context of acrostic poems found in the Old Testament. Each letter of the Hebrew alphabet, including Teth, is often associated with a specific meaning or symbolism. In the case of Teth, it is sometimes linked to the concepts of goodness and humility. Biblical Occurrences: Teth appears prominently in the acrostic structure of Psalm 119, the longest chapter in the Bible. Psalm 119 is an intricate composition where each section corresponds to a letter of the Hebrew alphabet, and each verse within that section begins with the respective letter. The Teth section includes verses 65-72. Psalm 119:65-72 : 65 You have treated Your servant well, O LORD, according to Your word. 66 Teach me good judgment and knowledge, for I believe in Your commandments. 67 Before I was afflicted, I went astray; but now I keep Your word. 68 You are good, and You do what is good; teach me Your statutes. 69 Though the arrogant have smeared me with lies, I keep Your precepts with all my heart. 70 Their hearts are hard and callous, but I delight in Your law. 71 It was good for me to be afflicted, that I might learn Your statutes. 72 The law from Your mouth is more precious to me than thousands of pieces of gold and silver. Theological Insights: The Teth section of Psalm 119 emphasizes the goodness of God and the value of His statutes. The psalmist acknowledges the afflictions he has faced and recognizes them as a means to draw closer to God's word. This reflects a common biblical theme where trials and suffering are seen as opportunities for spiritual growth and deeper understanding of divine truths. The repeated emphasis on God's goodness ("You are good, and You do what is good") aligns with the symbolic meaning of Teth, reinforcing the idea that God's nature and His laws are inherently good. The psalmist's desire for God's teachings and his delight in the law highlight the importance of scripture as a source of wisdom and guidance. Symbolism and Interpretation: In Jewish tradition, the letter Teth is often associated with the word "tov" (טוֹב), meaning "good." This connection is evident in the Teth section of Psalm 119, where the goodness of God and His commandments is a central theme. The psalmist's journey from affliction to understanding underscores the transformative power of God's word. The humility expressed by the psalmist, who acknowledges his past waywardness and the corrective nature of his afflictions, serves as a model for believers. It illustrates the biblical principle that true wisdom and understanding come from a humble and teachable spirit, open to the instruction and correction of the Lord. Conclusion: While the entry does not include a conclusion, the exploration of Teth in the context of Psalm 119 provides a rich tapestry of theological insights, emphasizing the goodness of God, the value of His commandments, and the transformative power of His word in the life of a believer. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia TETHteth (T): The 9th letter of the Hebrew alphabet; transliterated in this Encyclopedia as "T" (a more intense "t"). It came also to be used for the number 9; and with waw ("w") for 15, with zayin ("z") for 16 (i.e. 9 plus 6 and 9 plus 7) to avoid forming regular series with the abbreviation for Yahweh. For name, etc., see ALPHABET. Strong's Hebrew 8296. seret -- incision... cutting And sareteth {saw-reh'-teth}; from sarat; an incision -- cutting. see HEBREW sarat. 8295, 8296. seret. 8296a . Strong's Numbers. /hebrew/8296.htm - 5k 7986. shalleteth -- imperious Library Teth. Psalm 119 Teth, the 9Th Part. Exposition on the Book of Psalms Scottish Psalter and Paraphrases A Second Time the Master Zachyas, Doctor of the Law... The Theology of St. Hilary of Poitiers. Thesaurus Teth (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia TETH. ... For name, etc., see ALPHABET. Multi-Version Concordance Teth (1 Occurrence). Psalms 119:65 TETH. ... /t/teth.htm - 7k Nebaioth (5 Occurrences) Nabathaeans Nabataeans Tethered (1 Occurrence) Teta Beeltethmus Acrostic (2 Occurrences) Alphabet (2 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Teth (1 Occurrence)Psalms 119:65 Subtopics Related Terms |