Talmon is a biblical figure recognized as one of the porters, or gatekeepers, of the temple in Jerusalem. His role is mentioned in several passages within the Old Testament, highlighting his significance in the religious and communal life of ancient Israel.

Biblical References:

1. 1 Chronicles 9:17-19 · Talmon is listed among the gatekeepers who served in the house of the Lord. The passage states: "The gatekeepers were Shallum, Akkub, Talmon, Ahiman, and their brothers; Shallum was the chief. They were stationed until that time at the King's Gate on the east side. These were the gatekeepers from the camp of the Levites. Shallum son of Kore, the son of Ebiasaph, the son of Korah, and his fellow gatekeepers from his family, the Korahites, were responsible for guarding the thresholds of the Tent, just as their fathers had been responsible for guarding the entrance to the dwelling of the LORD."

2. Nehemiah 11:19 · In the post-exilic period, Talmon is again mentioned as one of the gatekeepers. The text reads: "And the gatekeepers: Akkub, Talmon, and their brothers, who kept watch at the gates, totaled 172 men."

3. Nehemiah 12:25 · This passage further confirms Talmon's role during the time of Nehemiah: "Mattaniah, Bakbukiah, Obadiah, Meshullam, Talmon, and Akkub were gatekeepers who guarded the storerooms at the gates."

Role and Significance:

The role of a porter or gatekeeper in the temple was a position of great responsibility and trust. Gatekeepers were tasked with maintaining the security and sanctity of the temple, controlling access to the sacred spaces, and ensuring that only those who were ceremonially clean could enter. This role was crucial in preserving the holiness of the temple and facilitating the proper worship of God.

Talmon, as a porter, was part of a Levitical family, indicating his service was hereditary and divinely appointed. The Levites were set apart for specific religious duties, and the gatekeepers were an essential part of this group, ensuring the orderly conduct of temple activities.

Historical Context:

The mention of Talmon in both the pre-exilic and post-exilic periods suggests a continuity of Levitical service despite the disruptions caused by the Babylonian exile. The restoration of the temple and its services under leaders like Nehemiah and Ezra was a significant aspect of re-establishing Jewish identity and religious practice after the return from exile.

Theological Implications:

Talmon's role as a gatekeeper underscores the importance of order, purity, and dedication in worship. The meticulous care in appointing and recording the duties of temple servants reflects the broader biblical theme of holiness and the need for God's people to approach Him with reverence and obedience. The gatekeepers, including Talmon, served as a reminder of the boundaries between the sacred and the profane, a concept that resonates throughout Scripture.

In summary, Talmon's service as a porter of the temple highlights the vital role of the Levites in maintaining the worship and religious life of Israel, emphasizing the themes of holiness, service, and continuity in the worship of God.1 Chronicles 9:17
And the porters were, Shallum, and Akkub, and Talmon, and Ahiman, and their brothers: Shallum was the chief;
Nave's Topical Index

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus