Learn more about Talitha

Introduction to Talitha

The word “Talitha” is a transliteration of an Aramaic term found in the New Testament, specifically in the Gospel of Mark. It is a rare and unique word that appears in the miraculous account of Jesus raising a young girl from the dead. The phrase “Talitha koum” (or “Talitha cumi” in older translations) preserves the original Aramaic spoken by Jesus, making it one of the few instances where His exact words are recorded in their native tongue. This expression holds deep theological significance as it reveals Jesus' compassion and authority over life and death.

Talitha Pronunciation

“Talitha” is pronounced as TAH-li-thah, with the emphasis on the first syllable. The “th” is soft, as in “thin.”

Talitha in the Bible

The word “Talitha” appears in a single, poignant scene in the Gospel of Mark:

• Mark 5:41: “Taking her by the hand he said to her, ‘Talitha cumi,’ which means, ‘Little girl, I say to you, arise.’”

In this passage, Jesus is addressing the daughter of Jairus, a synagogue leader, who had just died. Upon arriving at the house, He dismissed the mourners, took the girl by the hand, and spoke the Aramaic phrase “Talitha cumi.” Mark provides an immediate translation for his Greek-speaking audience, explaining that Jesus meant “Little girl, I say to you, arise.”

Talitha is the feminine form of the Aramaic word for “little girl” or “young maiden.” It is a term of endearment, signifying tenderness and affection. The use of the original Aramaic here enhances the emotional and intimate nature of the moment, capturing the personal care of Jesus in His miracle.

Related Themes and Meanings to Talitha

The word “Talitha” opens up several theological and spiritual themes in the Bible:

• Jesus’ Compassion: The scene underscores Jesus’ deep care for individuals, especially the vulnerable and grieving.
• Power Over Death: By commanding the girl to rise, Jesus demonstrates divine authority over life and death, a key theme in the Gospels.
• Faith and Healing: Jairus’ faith in seeking out Jesus is rewarded, mirroring other accounts where faith precedes miracles.
• Preservation of Jesus’ Words: The rare retention of Aramaic highlights the sacredness and historical authenticity of the moment.

Trivia and Interesting Facts about Talitha

• “Talitha cumi” is one of only a few phrases in the Gospels where Jesus’ Aramaic words are preserved. Others include “Ephphatha” (Mark 7:34) and “Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?” (Mark 15:34).
• The name “Talitha” has been adopted as a given name in various Christian cultures, often symbolizing renewal, innocence, or a miraculous beginning.
• Some older Bible translations and traditions erroneously interpret “Talitha” as a name rather than a description, leading to misconceptions that the girl’s name was Talitha.
• The event in Mark 5 is also paralleled in Luke 8:49–56 and Matthew 9:18–26, though only Mark preserves the Aramaic phrase “Talitha cumi.”

Talitha in Historical and Linguistic Context

Aramaic was the common spoken language in first-century Judea and Galilee, especially among the Jewish population. Jesus likely spoke Aramaic in everyday interactions, though He was also familiar with Hebrew (for scriptural readings) and Greek (as a common trade language). “Talitha” comes from the root *ṭal(y)* meaning “young girl” or “lamb,” possibly endearing the term further as an affectionate expression akin to “little lamb.”

The preservation of this word in the text underscores the authenticity and eyewitness nature of the Gospel of Mark, traditionally associated with Peter’s testimony and likely aimed at Gentile believers unfamiliar with Aramaic, hence the immediate translation.

Conclusion

Though it appears only once, “Talitha” encapsulates a profound moment of divine love and resurrection power. It serves not only as a demonstration of Jesus’ miraculous capabilities but also as a tender example of His personal touch in healing and restoration. This word, nestled in the Gospel narrative, has echoed through Christian history as a symbol of hope, new life, and the tender voice of the Savior calling His people to rise.