feminine passive participle from the same as גִּבּוֹר; force (literally or figuratively); by implication, valor, victory; force, mastery, might, mighty (act, power), power, strength.
Transliteration:gᵉbûwrâh
Pronunciation:gheb-oo-raw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term גְּבוּרָה (gᵉbûwrâh, `{{H1369}}`) is a feminine noun derived from the same root as גִּבּוֹר (gibbôr, `{{H1368}}`), meaning "mighty man" or "warrior." As a noun, gᵉbûwrâh primarily denotes "force" or "might," whether literally or figuratively. Its semantic range extends to encompass "valor," "victory," "mastery," and "strength." Unlike a mere potential, gᵉbûwrâh often implies manifested power, an active demonstration of strength or capability. It is the inherent quality or the outward expression of what a gibbôr possesses or performs, signifying not just strength but also the powerful act itself.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term gᵉbûwrâh appears frequently throughout the Hebrew Bible, often in contexts highlighting divine omnipotence or human prowess.
* **Divine Power:** A significant number of occurrences describe the gᵉbûwrâh of Yahweh. In the Psalms, it frequently refers to God's majestic power in creation and His mighty deeds throughout history. For instance, [[Psalm 21:13]] speaks of the Lord's strength, and [[Psalm 145:11]] declares that God's kingdom is one of gᵉbûwrâh. [[Job 26:14]] acknowledges the mere "whisper" of God's gᵉbûwrâh, implying His incomprehensible might. [[Isaiah 63:15]] appeals to God's "zeal and gᵉbûwrâh" in a plea for divine intervention. These passages emphasize God's active, demonstrated power in sustaining creation, executing judgment, and delivering His people.
* **Human Strength and Valor:** gᵉbûwrâh also describes human strength, valor, or military prowess. In [[1 Samuel 17:51]], the Philistine's head is taken, demonstrating David's gᵉbûwrâh (though the word itself is not in this verse, the concept is present in David's act of strength over a gibbôr). More directly, it describes the strength of a king or warrior, as seen in [[1 Chronicles 29:12]], where David attributes gᵉbûwrâh to God, from whom kings derive their power. [[2 Samuel 11:16]] mentions the "strength of the battle" (referring to gᵉbûwrâh in the sense of the full force of a military engagement).
* **Abstract Concepts:** Occasionally, gᵉbûwrâh can denote the general strength or power of a nation or entity, or the mastery achieved through strength.
### Related Words & Concepts
gᵉbûwrâh is intrinsically linked to its root, גִּבּוֹר (gibbôr, `{{H1368}}`), which denotes a "mighty man," "hero," or "warrior." While gibbôr refers to the agent, gᵉbûwrâh describes the quality or manifestation of that agent's power.
Other Hebrew words for strength or power often overlap but carry distinct nuances:
* כֹּחַ (koach, `{{H3581}}`): Often refers to physical strength, vital energy, or inherent capacity. While koach can be potential, gᵉbûwrâh is more often the manifested act or state of power.
* חַיִל (chayil, `{{H2428}}`): Encompasses strength, valor, wealth, or an army. It can describe a "man of valor" (אִישׁ חַיִל), similar to gibbôr, but gᵉbûwrâh focuses more on the *power* itself rather than the broader concept of capability or resources.
* עֹז (oz, `{{H5797}}`): Denotes strength, might, or boldness, often with a connotation of fierceness or security. While oz can describe inherent strength, gᵉbûwrâh often emphasizes the *demonstration* of that strength in action.
gᵉbûwrâh stands out for its strong association with powerful, decisive acts, particularly those of God, and the visible manifestation of might.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of gᵉbûwrâh is profound, especially in its application to God.
* **Divine Attribute:** gᵉbûwrâh is a fundamental attribute of Yahweh, underscoring His omnipotence. It is not merely that God *has* power, but that He *is* power, and He *acts* powerfully. This concept assures believers of God's ability to fulfill His promises, overcome obstacles, and execute His will.
* **Sovereignty and Creation:** God's gᵉbûwrâh is evident in His creation of the cosmos and His continued sovereignty over it. The very existence and order of the universe testify to His immense strength.
* **Redemptive History:** The mighty acts of God in Israel's history – the Exodus, the conquest of Canaan, deliverance from enemies, restoration from exile – are consistently presented as manifestations of His gᵉbûwrâh. This power is always purposeful, directed towards His covenant people for their salvation and His glory.
* **Foundation for Trust and Worship:** Acknowledging God's gᵉbûwrâh elicits awe, reverence, and profound trust. It calls humanity to worship the One whose power is limitless and whose purposes are unthwartable. Conversely, it highlights human weakness and dependence on divine might.
* **Ethical Implications:** For humanity, gᵉbûwrâh in a positive sense refers to valor and strength used for righteous purposes, often in service to God or community.
### Summary
The Hebrew word גְּבוּרָה (gᵉbûwrâh, `{{H1369}}`) signifies active, manifested power, strength, might, and valor. Derived from the root for "mighty man" (`{{H1368}}`), it describes not just potential but the powerful act itself. While applicable to human strength and military prowess, its most significant use is in describing the omnipotence of God. gᵉbûwrâh underscores Yahweh's majestic power in creation, His decisive acts in redemptive history, and His unwavering sovereignty. It serves as a foundational concept for worship, trust, and a deep appreciation for the God whose gᵉbûwrâh knows no bounds.
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