### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **gôbahh**, represented by `{{H1363}}`, describes both physical and metaphorical elevation. It appears 17 times across 16 unique verses in the Bible. Its meaning encompasses concepts of literal **height** and stature, as well as the abstract qualities of **loftiness**, **pride**, and **excellency**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H1363}}` is used to denote both tangible measurements and moral attitudes. It describes the literal **height** of individuals like Goliath [[1 Samuel 17:4]] and entire peoples like the Amorites [[Amos 2:9]]. It is also used for architectural dimensions, such as the temple's porch [[2 Chronicles 3:4]] and the "so **high** that they were dreadful" rings in Ezekiel's vision [[Ezekiel 1:18]]. Metaphorically, it frequently refers to the sinful **pride** of the human heart, as when the wicked man's **pride** keeps him from seeking God [[Psalms 10:4]], or when a "haughty spirit" precedes a fall [[Proverbs 16:18]]. In a positive sense, it can also denote grandeur, as in the **height** of heaven [[Job 22:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the meanings of height and pride:
* `{{H1361}}` **gâbahh**: As the primitive root of `{{H1363}}`, this verb means "to soar, i.e. be lofty; figuratively, to be haughty". It is used to describe a heart that is "lifted up" in pride [[Ezekiel 28:2]] and is the action that leads to a state of **gôbahh**.
* `{{H1347}}` **gâʼôwn**: This noun for "arrogance or majesty" is used alongside `{{H1363}}` to describe the "pride" that goes before destruction and the "haughty spirit" [[Proverbs 16:18]], showing a strong overlap in meaning.
* `{{H6967}}` **qôwmâh**: Meaning "height" or "stature," this word is often used for physical dimension. It appears with `{{H1363}}` to describe how a nation's **stature** was exalted and seen in its **height** [[Ezekiel 19:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1363}}` centers on the contrast between divine excellency and human pride.
* **The Danger of a Haughty Heart:** The word is frequently used to warn against arrogance. A "haughty spirit" is explicitly stated to come before "a fall" [[Proverbs 16:18]]. This principle is illustrated when the king of Assyria is judged because his heart was "lifted up in his **height**" [[Ezekiel 31:10]]. The only remedy is to be humbled, as Hezekiah was for the **pride** of his heart [[2 Chronicles 32:26]].
* **Physical vs. Divine Power:** Physical **height**, a symbol of strength and dominance, is shown to be insufficient against God. God destroyed the Amorites, "whose **height** was like the **height** of the cedars" [[Amos 2:9]]. This demonstrates that earthly power and stature are ultimately subject to divine authority.
* **Legitimate vs. Illegitimate Loftiness:** The word highlights a crucial distinction. While human **pride** is condemned, the **height** of heaven is where God resides [[Job 22:12]]. This establishes a proper order: loftiness and **excellency** are attributes of God, while human attempts to claim this status through arrogance are sinful and lead to judgment.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1363}}` **gôbahh** is a multifaceted word that moves from the literal to the metaphorical. It can define the physical stature of a giant [[1 Samuel 17:4]] or the architectural scale of a temple [[2 Chronicles 3:4]], but its most significant use is in the moral realm. It serves as a powerful warning against pride and a "haughty spirit," which scripture declares leads to destruction [[Proverbs 16:18]]. Ultimately, the word **gôbahh** contrasts the fleeting and condemned **height** of human arrogance with the true and eternal **excellency** and **loftiness** that belong to God alone.
TRV