The Hebrew word gabhûwth, represented by H1365, denotes pride and loftiness. It is derived from the word גָּבַהּ and, despite its potent meaning, appears only 2 times in 2 unique verses. It consistently refers to a state of human pride that stands in opposition to God's authority.
The use of H1365 is confined to the book of Isaiah, where its two appearances underscore a singular, powerful theme. It is used to describe the arrogant condition of humanity that is destined for judgment. The "lofty H1365 looks H5869 of man H120" are set to be humbled Isaiah 2:11, and the "loftiness H1365 of man H120" will be bowed down Isaiah 2:17. In both verses, this humbling occurs on "that day H3117," a future time when the LORD H3068 alone will be exalted.
Several related words are used in direct connection with H1365, helping to define its meaning through parallels and contrasts:
- H7312 rûwm: Defined as haughtiness, this word appears alongside H1365 in both of its occurrences, reinforcing the concept of arrogant human pride that will be brought low (Isaiah 2:11, Isaiah 2:17).
- H8213 shâphêl: Meaning to "humiliate" or "be...low," this verb describes the direct consequence of the loftiness of H1365. The loftiness of man will be "made low H8213" Isaiah 2:17.
- H7817 shâchach: Similar to the above, this term for being "bowed down" or "brought low" is used to describe the fate of the proud, showing that the haughtiness of men "shall be bowed down H7817" Isaiah 2:11.
- H7682 sâgab: This word, meaning to "exalt" or be "lofty," is used in stark contrast to human pride. It is reserved for the LORD H3068, who alone will "be exalted H7682" when human loftiness is humbled Isaiah 2:11.
The theological weight of H1365 is significant, focusing on the absolute sovereignty of God.
- Pride vs. Exaltation: The primary message is that human loftiness is incompatible with divine glory. The verses show a direct relationship: for the LORD H3068 to be exalted, human pride must first be humbled Isaiah 2:17.
- The Day of Judgment: The repeated phrase "in that day H3117" links the fall of human pride to a specific moment of divine judgment, emphasizing that God will ultimately correct the imbalance caused by human arrogance Isaiah 2:11.
- A Human Condition: The term is applied to man H120 and men H582 as a species, presenting this pride not as an isolated act but as a general condition that must be confronted and brought low by God.
In summary, H1365 gabhûwth is a highly specific term for the pride of humanity. Its exclusive use in Isaiah establishes a clear and fundamental principle: human loftiness is an affront to God's unique glory. The word's meaning is defined by the divine response it provokes—a humbling that results in the singular exaltation of the LORD.
TRV