### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun gabhûwth (`{{H1365}}`) is derived from the root gābah (`{{H1361}}`), which fundamentally means "to be high," "to be exalted," or "to be tall." While the root gābah can carry neutral or even positive connotations (e.g., describing the height of mountains or the exaltation of God), gabhûwth specifically captures the negative semantic range. It denotes "pride," "loftiness," "arrogance," or "haughtiness" in a pejorative sense. This term describes an elevated state of mind or heart that is self-exalting, presumptuous, and often dismissive of divine authority or the rightful place of others. It signifies not merely physical height, but a moral or spiritual elevation of oneself beyond what is proper or godly.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word gabhûwth (`{{H1365}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of Jeremiah.
* **[[Jeremiah 48:29]]**: "We have heard of the pride of Moab—he is very proud—of his loftiness (גַּבְהוּת), his pride, his arrogance, and the haughtiness of his heart."
In this passage, gabhûwth is used within a prophecy of divine judgment against the nation of Moab. The prophet Jeremiah enumerates Moab's numerous sins, with their excessive pride being a prominent feature. The word gabhûwth is clustered with several other terms denoting arrogance and haughtiness (ga'on, gevah, sha'at), creating an emphatic description of Moab's deep-seated self-exaltation. This accumulation of synonyms underscores the pervasive nature of their pride, which is presented as the very essence of their rebellion against God and the primary cause of their impending downfall. Moab's gabhûwth signifies a spirit of self-sufficiency and defiance that refused to acknowledge God's sovereignty or their own dependence.
### Related Words & Concepts
Gabhûwth (`{{H1365}}`) belongs to a significant semantic field of words in Hebrew that describe various facets of pride and arrogance.
* **Gābah (`{{H1361}}`):** The root verb from which gabhûwth is derived. While gābah can mean "to be high" in a positive sense (e.g., God's exaltation), its derivatives often convey the negative sense of human pride.
* **Gā'ôn (`{{H1346}}`):** A frequently used term for "pride," "majesty," or "excellency." Like the root gābah, it can refer to God's glorious majesty or to human arrogance and presumption.
* **Gĕvah (`{{H1347}}`):** Another noun derived from gābah, meaning "haughtiness," "loftiness," or "pride." It is conceptually very close to gabhûwth and is often used interchangeably in contexts of human hubris.
* **Rûm (`{{H7311}}`):** A distinct root meaning "to be high," "to be exalted," or "to lift up." Its derivatives can also describe sinful pride or self-exaltation.
* **Zîd (`{{H2102}}`):** A verb meaning "to boil up," "to act proudly," or "to be insolent." It often describes presumptuous sin committed in defiance of God's commands.
These related terms collectively highlight the biblical emphasis on the dangers of human pride, contrasting it with the humility and fear of the Lord that are foundational to true wisdom and righteousness.
### Theological Significance
The concept of gabhûwth (`{{H1365}}`) carries profound theological significance, representing a fundamental spiritual posture that stands in direct opposition to God's character and commands.
* **Antithesis of Humility:** In biblical theology, pride is consistently portrayed as an abomination to the Lord. It is the antithesis of humility, which is a core virtue for those seeking to walk with God. Gabhûwth signifies a heart that has elevated itself above its proper place, claiming self-sufficiency and denying its dependence on the Creator.
* **Source of Rebellion and Judgment:** As seen in the judgment against Moab ([[Jeremiah 48:29]]), gabhûwth is presented as a root cause of national and individual sin, leading to defiance of divine authority, oppression of others, and ultimately, divine retribution. God's consistent resistance to the proud, while granting grace to the humble, is a recurring theme throughout Scripture ([[Proverbs 3:34]], [[James 4:6]], [[1 Peter 5:5]]).
* **Spiritual Blindness:** Pride, including gabhûwth, often leads to spiritual blindness, preventing individuals from seeking or acknowledging God ([[Psalm 10:4]]). It fosters a delusion of self-importance that obscures true wisdom and understanding.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The condemnation of gabhûwth underscores the absolute sovereignty of God. Any attempt by humanity to usurp God's place or to live independently of Him is an act of rebellion that will inevitably be met with divine justice.
### Summary
Gabhûwth (`{{H1365}}`) is a potent Hebrew noun derived from the root gābah (`{{H1361}}`), meaning "to be high." Uniquely among its cognates, gabhûwth exclusively denotes "pride," "loftiness," or "haughtiness" in a negative, moral, and spiritual sense. Its singular occurrence in [[Jeremiah 48:29]] vividly describes the arrogant disposition of Moab, which is presented as the primary reason for their impending divine judgment. The word is part of a broader lexical field that consistently portrays human pride as an affront to God's sovereignty, a source of rebellion, and a precursor to downfall. Theologically, gabhûwth represents a posture of self-exaltation that stands in stark contrast to the humility and dependence on God that are essential for a righteous life and true wisdom.
TRV