### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **gêʼeh**, represented by `{{H1343}}`, is a term for being **lofty**, and figuratively, **arrogant** or **proud**. It appears 9 times across 9 unique verses in the Bible. The word consistently identifies individuals who exhibit an arrogant and haughty disposition, often placing them in direct opposition to God and the righteous.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1343}}` is used to characterize those who will face divine judgment. The LORD promises to **destroy** the house of the **proud** [[Proverbs 15:25]], while establishing the border of the widow. The "day of the LORD" is specifically said to be upon every one that is **proud** and lofty, who will ultimately be brought low [[Isaiah 2:12]]. Those described as **proud** are depicted as actively hostile, setting snares and nets for others [[Psalms 140:5]]. Scripture calls for God, as the judge of the earth, to render a **reward** to the **proud** [[Psalms 94:2]] and for the proud to be abased [[Job 40:11]] and brought low [[Job 40:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words explore the concept of pride and its opposite, humility:
* `{{H1346}}` **gaʼăvâh** (arrogance or majesty; by implication, (concretely) ornament): This word is closely tied to the consequences of pride, stating that a man's **pride** will bring him low [[Proverbs 29:23]]. It is also used in the context of God rewarding the proud doer [[Psalms 31:23]].
* `{{H1347}}` **gâʼôwn** (arrogance or majesty; pomp, pride, proud, swelling): This term emphasizes the self-exaltation that precedes a downfall, famously stated as **pride** goeth before destruction [[Proverbs 16:18]]. It also describes the iniquity of Sodom [[Ezekiel 16:49]].
* `{{H1363}}` **gôbahh** (elation, grandeur, arrogance): Often translated as **haughtiness** or **loftiness**, this word describes a "haughty spirit" that comes before a fall [[Proverbs 16:18]].
* `{{H8217}}` **shâphâl** (depressed, literally or figuratively; base(-st), humble, low(-er, -ly)): This word serves as a direct contrast to pride. It is better to be of an **humble** spirit than to divide spoil with the proud `{{H1343}}` [[Proverbs 16:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1343}}` is significant, consistently portraying pride as a state of opposition to divine order.
* **Hostility toward the Righteous:** The **proud** are not merely self-important; they are presented as antagonists who actively plot against others, hiding snares and nets [[Psalms 140:5]]. Their pride manifests as oppressive action.
* **A Target for Divine Judgment:** Scripture repeatedly affirms that God opposes the **proud**. He will **destroy** their house [[Proverbs 15:25]], **abase** them [[Job 40:11]], and bring them **low** [[Isaiah 2:12]]. The "day of the LORD" is a time of reckoning specifically for the proud.
* **The Antithesis of Godly Character:** The word stands in stark contrast to virtues like humility. [[Proverbs 16:19]] presents a clear choice: a better life is found in being of an humble spirit with the lowly rather than in associating with the **proud**.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1343}}` is a term that carries a consistently negative connotation of arrogance and haughtiness. It describes not just an attitude but a character that sets itself against God's law and people. The biblical use of **gêʼeh** serves as a stark warning, illustrating the principle that God will bring down the lofty and arrogant, while exalting the humble. It is a key element in understanding the scriptural themes of divine justice and the moral imperative of humility.
TRV