or גְּבֻלָה; (shortened) feminine of גְּבוּל; a boundary, region; border, bound, coast, landmark. place.
Transliteration:gᵉbûwlâh
Pronunciation:gheb-oo-law'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term gᵉbûwlâh (`{{H1367}}`) is a feminine noun derived from the masculine gᵉbûl (`{{H1366}}`). Its core meaning centers on the concept of a "boundary," "border," or "limit." While often used interchangeably with its masculine counterpart, gᵉbûlâh frequently emphasizes the *line* or *demarcation* itself, or the *region* specifically defined by such a boundary. Its semantic range extends to encompass "coast" (referring to a coastal border), "landmark" (a marker defining a boundary), and more broadly, a "place" or "territory" that is circumscribed. The word fundamentally conveys the idea of division, separation, and the precise definition of space, whether physical or conceptual. It denotes a fixed and discernible line that separates one area from another, establishing distinct territories or spheres.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term gᵉbûwlâh appears extensively throughout the Hebrew Bible, primarily in geographical and legal contexts. Its most prominent usage is found in the books of Numbers and Joshua, where it meticulously describes the divinely ordained boundaries of the Promised Land and the tribal inheritances within it.
In Numbers, gᵉbûwlâh is crucial for outlining the precise extent of the land of Canaan that Israel was to possess. For instance, [[Numbers 34:3-12]] details the southern, western, northern, and eastern gᵉbûwlâh of the land, emphasizing God's specific allocation. This highlights the concept of divine ownership and the meticulous nature of God's provision for His people.
The book of Joshua utilizes gᵉbûwlâh repeatedly to delineate the specific border or boundary of each tribe's inheritance. Examples include the gᵉbûlâh of Judah ([[Joshua 15:1]]), Ephraim ([[Joshua 16:5]]), Manasseh ([[Joshua 17:7]]), and Benjamin ([[Joshua 18:11]]). The detailed recitation of these boundaries underscores the fulfillment of God's covenant promises to Abraham regarding the land and establishes the legal basis for tribal land tenure. Each gᵉbûwlâh was a tangible expression of divine order and the secure possession granted to Israel.
Beyond tribal allotments, gᵉbûwlâh also refers to the borders of other nations, such as the coast or border of Egypt ([[Exodus 10:14]]) or the boundary of Moab ([[Numbers 21:13]]). This demonstrates its general applicability to any defined territory.
In a more ethical context, gᵉbûwlâh appears in the prohibition against moving a neighbor's landmark or boundary ([[Deuteronomy 19:14]]; cf. `{{H1366}}` in [[Proverbs 22:28]], [[Proverbs 23:10]]). This command underscores the sanctity of established property lines and serves as a foundational principle of justice and social order within the covenant community. It protects the integrity of individual and family inheritances.
In some instances, gᵉbûwlâh can refer to a physical limit imposed by God, such as the boundary set around Mount Sinai to prevent unauthorized approach ([[Exodus 19:12]]). This usage highlights the concept of sacred space and the need for reverence and obedience in the presence of the divine.
### Related Words & Concepts
Gᵉbûwlâh (`{{H1367}}`) is intimately connected with its masculine counterpart, gᵉbûl (`{{H1366}}`), which carries a very similar meaning of "boundary," "territory," or "limit." Often, these two terms are used interchangeably, though gᵉbûlâh might sometimes emphasize the line itself or a specific region defined by it.
Other related concepts and words include:
* **Naḥălāh (`{{H5162}}`):** "Inheritance" or "possession." The gᵉbûwlâh defines the precise extent of one's naḥălāh, making the two concepts intrinsically linked in the context of the Promised Land.
* **Ḥēleq (`{{H2530}}`):** "Portion" or "share." Similar to naḥălāh, this term refers to the allocated part of land, which is bounded by gᵉbûwlâh.
* **Nātan (`{{H5004}}`):** "To give." God is frequently depicted as "giving" the land with its specific gᵉbûwlâh to Israel, emphasizing divine bestowal and ownership.
* **Divine Order and Allocation:** The detailed enumeration of gᵉbûwlâh throughout the Pentateuch and Joshua speaks to God's meticulous planning and sovereign control over creation and the destinies of nations.
* **Territorial Integrity:** The concept of gᵉbûwlâh is foundational to understanding the importance of maintaining distinct national and tribal identities, as well as individual property rights.
* **Covenant Fulfillment:** The establishment of specific boundaries for Israel's land is a direct fulfillment of the Abrahamic covenant.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of gᵉbûwlâh is profound, touching upon several core doctrines:
1. **Divine Sovereignty and Order:** The precise and divinely ordained gᵉbûwlâh of the land of Israel underscores God's absolute sovereignty over creation and human affairs. He is the ultimate surveyor and allocator of territories, setting "the bounds of the peoples" ([[Deuteronomy 32:8]], though using `{{H1366}}`). The meticulous detail in the biblical accounts reflects a God who is orderly, intentional, and precise in His plans.
2. **Covenant Faithfulness:** The establishment and maintenance of Israel's gᵉbûwlâh are tangible demonstrations of God's faithfulness to His covenant promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The land, with its defined borders, is a central component of these promises, signifying God's enduring commitment to His people.
3. **Identity and Belonging:** The gᵉbûwlâh provides Israel with a distinct identity and a secure place of belonging. It defines their corporate existence as a nation set apart by God, distinguishing them from surrounding peoples. This physical boundary reflects their spiritual separation and unique calling.
4. **Justice and Law:** The prohibition against moving a gᵉbûwlâh (landmark) is a foundational principle of biblical justice. It protects the vulnerable, upholds property rights, and ensures social stability within the covenant community. This command reflects God's concern for equity and the well-being of all members.
5. **Limits and Responsibility:** Boundaries imply limits, not only physical but also moral and spiritual. The gᵉbûwlâh around Mount Sinai ([[Exodus 19:12]]) illustrates the sacredness of God's presence and the necessity of reverent obedience. Transgressing established boundaries, whether physical or moral, carries consequences, highlighting human accountability before a holy God.
### Summary
The Hebrew word gᵉbûwlâh (`{{H1367}}`) denotes a "boundary," "border," or the "region" defined by such a line. As the feminine form of gᵉbûl (`{{H1366}}`), it emphasizes the precise demarcation of space. Predominantly used in the context of the divinely allocated land of Israel, gᵉbûwlâh meticulously outlines tribal inheritances in Joshua and the national borders in Numbers, signifying God's meticulous order and covenant faithfulness. Its usage extends to general territorial limits and ethical injunctions against moving landmarks, underscoring principles of justice and property rights. Theologically, gᵉbûwlâh profoundly illustrates God's sovereignty, His fidelity to His promises, the foundation of Israel's identity, and the importance of respecting divinely established limits in both physical and moral realms.
TRV