The Aramaic word gᵉbûwrâh, represented by H1370, is a term meaning power or might. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses, both in the book of Daniel. The word corresponds to its Hebrew counterpart and is used to describe a fundamental attribute of God.
In the biblical narrative, H1370 is used exclusively by the prophet Daniel. He first employs it in a blessing, declaring that might is an intrinsic quality that belongs to God forever Daniel 2:20. Shortly after, Daniel gives thanks to God, acknowledging that this same might, along with wisdom, has been given to him to understand the king's matter Daniel 2:23. The context demonstrates that might is both an eternal attribute of God and a power He can bestow upon his followers.
Several related words clarify the concept of divine power:
- H2452 chokmâh (wisdom): This word for wisdom is paired with might in both of its occurrences, indicating that God's power is inseparable from His perfect knowledge (Daniel 2:20, Daniel 2:23).
- H3052 yᵉhab (to give): This term, meaning to give, shows that might originates with God and is something He can grant to others, as He did for Daniel Daniel 2:23.
- H1289 bᵉrak (to bless): The proper response to comprehending God's immense might and wisdom is to bless His name, as demonstrated by Daniel Daniel 2:20.
- H7624 shᵉbach (to praise): Daniel's reception of might from God leads him to praise the God of his fathers Daniel 2:23.
The theological weight of H1370 is focused on the nature of God's power.
- Divine Attribute: The word establishes might as an inherent and eternal attribute of God, existing alongside His wisdom. Daniel declares that "wisdom and might are his" Daniel 2:20.
- Source of Power: God is presented as the ultimate source of all might. He does not only possess it, but He also dispenses it to His servants to accomplish His will Daniel 2:23.
- Foundation for Praise: God's might and wisdom are presented as the basis for blessing and thanking Him. Daniel's acts of worship are a direct response to these divine qualities (Daniel 2:20, Daniel 2:23).
In summary, H1370 defines might as a core attribute of God. Though appearing only twice, its use in the book of Daniel is significant, always paired with wisdom to characterize the nature of God. It illustrates that true power is both an intrinsic quality of the divine and a gift that can be bestowed upon humanity to fulfill God's purposes.
TRV