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H1540 · Hebrew · Old Testament
גָּלָה
Galah
Verb
To Reveal / Uncover / Go into Exile

Definition

The Hebrew verb galah carries two related but distinct meanings. First, it means to uncover or reveal — as in uncovering nakedness (Leviticus 18:6–18), revealing a secret (Proverbs 11:13), or God revealing His word to the prophets (1 Samuel 3:21). Second, it means to go into exile or be carried away — the great exile of Israel and Judah to Assyria and Babylon. Both meanings share the root idea of something being laid bare or displaced from its rightful place.

Usage & Theological Significance

The double meaning of galah is theologically rich. When Israel sinned, God's glory (kavod) 'went into exile' from the Temple — Ezekiel saw it departing (Ezekiel 10–11). But God also promised a new revelation: I will reveal to them the abundance of peace and truth (Jeremiah 33:6). The cross is the ultimate galah — God's love fully uncovered, His Son fully exposed to death for our sin. And in Revelation, the new Jerusalem descends — the God who was hidden is forever revealed (Revelation 21:3).

Key Bible Verses

1 Samuel 3:21 The LORD continued to appear at Shiloh, and there he revealed himself to Samuel through his word.
Amos 3:7 Surely the Sovereign LORD does nothing without revealing his plan to his servants the prophets.
Isaiah 39:6 Behold, the days are coming when all that is in your house shall be carried to Babylon. Nothing shall be left, says the LORD.
Deuteronomy 29:29 The secret things belong to the LORD our God, but the things revealed belong to us and to our children forever.
Ezekiel 11:23 The glory of the LORD went up from within the city and stopped above the mountain east of it.

Related Words

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