from גּוּב; a log (as cut out); also well or cistern (as dug); beam, ditch, pit.
Transliteration:gêb
Pronunciation:gabe
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H1356}}` (gêb) is derived from the verb `{{H1462}}` (gûb), meaning "to dig" or "to cut out." This etymological root gives rise to two distinct, yet related, semantic fields for gêb:
1. **An Excavated or Dug-Out Place:** This primary sense refers to a hollowed-out space in the earth. It can denote a "ditch," "trench," "pit," or even a "well" or "cistern." The emphasis here is on the void created by excavation, often for the purpose of collecting water or entrapping.
2. **A Cut-Out or Shaped Material:** In a secondary, but significant, sense, gêb can refer to a piece of material that has been "cut out" or "shaped" from a larger source, specifically a "log" or "beam." This usage highlights the act of forming a structural element from raw material, often for construction.
The versatility of gêb thus lies in its ability to describe both the void created by cutting/digging and the solid material extracted or shaped by the same action, reflecting the ancient world's practical engagement with earth and wood.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of `{{H1356}}` (gêb) in the Hebrew Bible illustrate its dual semantic range:
In [[2 Kings 3:16]], the term is used in the context of Elisha's prophecy to the kings of Israel, Judah, and Edom concerning the miraculous provision of water in the wilderness. Elisha instructs them, "Thus says the Lord, 'Make this valley full of ditches (gêb).'" Here, gêb clearly refers to "trenches" or "ditches" dug into the ground to collect the forthcoming water. The context emphasizes human preparation and obedience as a prerequisite for divine miraculous intervention. The empty ditches are a testament to faith, awaiting God's supernatural filling.
The remaining occurrences of `{{H1356}}` are found in the detailed architectural descriptions of the visionary temple in Ezekiel 41. In [[Ezekiel 41:15]] and multiple times in [[Ezekiel 41:16]], gêb is used to describe specific structural elements of the temple. Translations vary, rendering it as "galleries," "beams," "recesses," or "ledges." Given the context of temple construction, this usage aligns with the "cut-out material" or "shaped element" meaning, referring to architectural components like beams or structural recesses formed within the walls. For instance, "the galleries thereof round about" ([[Ezekiel 41:15]]) and "the doorposts, and the narrow windows, and the galleries round about on their three stories" ([[Ezekiel 41:16]]) suggest integral parts of the building's framework or intricate design, meticulously "cut out" or "formed" to precise specifications. This highlights the precision and detail of God's divine architectural plan.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of `{{H1356}}` (gêb) is enriched by examining its relationship to other Hebrew terms:
* **`{{H1462}}` (gûb):** The root verb, "to dig" or "to cut out," is foundational to understanding gêb. It underscores the active process of formation, whether creating a void or shaping a solid.
* **Words for Excavated Spaces:**
* `{{H953}}` (bôr): Often translated as "cistern" or "pit," typically a deep, often dry, excavation.
* `{{H875}}` (be'er): Refers to a "well," a source of living water, usually implying a natural spring or a deep, dug-out source.
* `{{H7613}}` (shaḥath): Denotes a "pit" or "destruction," often with connotations of a trap or grave.
While gêb can overlap with these, its usage in [[2 Kings 3:16]] specifically emphasizes a "ditch" or "trench" for water collection, distinct from a deep well or cistern.
* **Words for Structural Elements:**
* `{{H6086}}` ('ēṣ): The general term for "tree" or "wood," the raw material from which gêb (as a beam/log) would be fashioned.
* `{{H7136}}` (qôrāh): A more specific term for a "beam" or "rafter," indicating a structural piece of wood. gêb in Ezekiel's vision could be considered a specific type of architectural beam or recess.
### Theological Significance
The dual nature of `{{H1356}}` (gêb) offers several points of theological reflection:
1. **Divine Provision and Human Preparation:** In [[2 Kings 3:16]], the command to dig ditches (gêb) before the miraculous rain illustrates a profound theological principle: God often requires human effort and obedience as a prerequisite for His supernatural provision. The empty ditches symbolize faith in action, a tangible expression of trust that God will fill what humanity prepares in accordance with His word. It underscores that while God's power is limitless, He often chooses to work through and in cooperation with human instrumentality.
2. **Divine Design and Order:** The usage of gêb in Ezekiel's temple vision ([[Ezekiel 41:15-16]]) speaks to the intricate and precise nature of God's divine design. Even seemingly mundane architectural elements like "beams" or "recesses" are part of a meticulously planned structure. This emphasizes God's attention to detail, His perfect order, and the sacredness of His dwelling place. It suggests that every component, no matter how small, contributes to the overall glory and functionality of God's presence.
3. **Transformation and Purpose:** Whether referring to a dug-out hollow in the earth or a shaped piece of wood, gêb implies transformation from a raw state (undisturbed earth, raw timber) into something with a specific purpose (water collection, structural support). This can be seen as a metaphor for God's transformative work in creation and redemption, shaping and preparing elements for His divine purposes.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H1356}}` (gêb) is a versatile term derived from the root `{{H1462}}` ("to dig/cut out"), encompassing two primary semantic fields: an excavated "ditch" or "pit," and a "log" or "beam" cut from wood. Its appearance in [[2 Kings 3:16]] highlights the theological principle of human preparation and faith preceding divine provision, as the empty ditches await God's miraculous water. In [[Ezekiel 41:15-16]], gêb denotes precise architectural elements within the visionary temple, underscoring God's meticulous design and the sacred order of His dwelling. Thus, gêb reveals not only practical aspects of ancient life concerning water management and construction but also profound theological truths about divine sovereignty, human obedience, and the intricate beauty of God's plans.
TRV