### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek lemma Ἐβέρ (Ebér), Strong's `{{G1443}}`, is a direct transliteration of the Hebrew proper noun עֵבֶר (ʿĒber), Strong's `{{H5677}}`. The Hebrew name itself is derived from the verbal root עָבַר (ʿābar), meaning "to pass over," "to cross over," or "to traverse." Consequently, the name Eber inherently carries the semantic range of "one who passes over," "one from beyond," or "the region beyond." This etymological connection is profoundly significant, as it is widely understood to be the origin of the term "Hebrew" (`{{H5680}}`), signifying "one who has crossed over" or "one from the other side" (referring to the Euphrates River).
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the New Testament, Ἐβέρ (`{{G1443}}`) occurs once, within the genealogy of Jesus Christ as recorded in [[Luke 3:35]]. Here, Eber is listed as an ancestor of Jesus, bridging the lineage from Shem to Abraham.
In the Old Testament, the Hebrew equivalent עֵבֶר (`{{H5677}}`) appears several times, primarily within genealogical accounts:
* [[Genesis 10:21]], [[Genesis 10:24-25]]: Eber is identified as the son of Shelah and the father of Peleg and Joktan. It is notably stated that "in his days the earth was divided" ([[Genesis 10:25]]), referencing the event connected to Peleg's name (meaning "division").
* [[Genesis 11:14-17]]: This passage details Eber's place in the lineal descent from Shem to Abram, providing his age at the birth of Peleg and the years he lived thereafter.
* [[1 Chronicles 1:18-19]], [[1 Chronicles 1:25]]: These verses reiterate the genealogical information found in Genesis, affirming Eber's position within the patriarchal lineage.
Contextually, Eber is a pivotal post-Flood figure, serving as a crucial link in the line leading from Noah's son Shem to Abraham. He represents a generation that existed before the call of Abraham, yet his descendants are preserved, forming the very foundation for the people from whom Abraham would emerge.
### Related Words & Concepts
* `{{H5677}}` (ʿĒber): The Hebrew form of the name, the direct source of the Greek transliteration.
* `{{H5680}}` (ʿibrî): "Hebrew," the ethnonym for the people of Israel, strongly linked etymologically to Eber. This term describes the people, their language, and their land, as seen in instances like [[Genesis 14:13]] (Abram the Hebrew) or [[Exodus 1:15]] (Hebrew midwives).
* `{{H5674}}` (ʿēber): A noun/preposition meaning "beyond," "across," or "the other side," sharing the same root and reinforcing the concept of crossing or being from a distinct place.
* **Genealogy:** The overarching biblical concept of tracing lineage and ancestry, which is fundamental to understanding God's unfolding plan of salvation and the continuity of His covenant promises.
* **Patriarch:** Eber is recognized as a patriarch, a foundational father figure in the lineage that ultimately leads to Abraham and, subsequently, the nation of Israel.
### Theological Significance
Eber's inclusion in the biblical record, particularly in the genealogies, carries significant theological weight:
* **Continuity of God's Redemptive Plan:** By meticulously tracing the lineage from Noah through Eber to Abraham and ultimately to Christ, the biblical genealogies underscore the unbroken continuity of God's redemptive purpose. Eber's presence highlights God's faithfulness in preserving a chosen line through whom His covenant promises would be fulfilled, culminating in the Messiah.
* **Eponymous Ancestor of the Hebrews:** The strong etymological connection between Eber and "Hebrew" suggests that he is the eponymous ancestor of the people of Israel. This link provides a foundational identity for God's chosen people, rooting them in a specific post-Flood patriarch and emphasizing their distinct origin, perhaps even alluding to a spiritual "crossing over" or separation from the world.
* **Precursor to Abrahamic Covenant:** Eber stands as a crucial link in the pre-Abrahamic history of salvation. His existence and preserved lineage demonstrate God's preparatory work and providential guidance of humanity towards the establishment of the Abrahamic Covenant, the cornerstone of Israel's identity and calling.
* **Divine Providence in History:** The detailed recording of figures like Eber within the biblical genealogies reinforces the Bible's emphasis on historical accuracy and God's sovereign hand actively guiding human history towards His ultimate purposes, demonstrating His long-term plan for humanity's redemption.
### Summary
G1443 Ἐβέρ (Ebér) is the Greek transliteration of the Hebrew patriarch `{{H5677}}` עֵבֶר. His name, derived from the Hebrew root meaning "to pass over" or "beyond," is widely considered the etymological source of the term "Hebrew" (`{{H5680}}`), suggesting a foundational connection between the people of God and an ancestor who "crossed over." Biblically, Eber is a pivotal figure in the post-Flood genealogies found in [[Genesis 10]], [[Genesis 11]], [[1 Chronicles 1]], and the New Testament genealogy of Jesus Christ in [[Luke 3:35]]. His inclusion is theologically significant, underscoring the continuity of God's redemptive plan from Noah to Abraham and ultimately to Christ. Eber represents a crucial link in the unfolding history of salvation, highlighting divine faithfulness in preserving a chosen lineage and preparing the way for the foundational covenants of Israel.
TRV