from an unused root (probably meaning to freeze); crystal (from its resemblance to ice); pearl.
Transliteration:gâbîysh
Pronunciation:gaw-beesh'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term H1378 (גָּבִישׁ, *gâbîysh*) is primarily understood to denote "crystal" or, in some interpretations, "pearl." Its etymological root, though unused in the biblical text, is thought to convey the meaning "to freeze," suggesting a connection to ice. This etymological link illuminates the primary meaning of "crystal" as a transparent, hard, and often clear substance, resembling frozen water in its purity and form. The semantic range thus encompasses objects of significant value, beauty, and often, a translucent or lustrous quality. The inclusion of "pearl" in its definition suggests a broader category of precious, naturally occurring gems, characterized by their rarity and high esteem. Both "crystal" and "pearl" imply purity, brilliance, and considerable worth.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word H1378 (גָּבִישׁ, *gâbîysh*) appears only twice in the Hebrew Bible, both instances occurring in the same verse within the book of Job:
* [[Job 28:18]]: "No mention shall be made of coral or of crystal; for the price of wisdom is above rubies." (ESV)
* [[Job 28:18]]: "Of coral, and of crystal, there shall be no mention: for the price of wisdom is above rubies." (KJV)
In this profound chapter, Job 28, the speaker embarks on a poetic exploration of humanity's remarkable ability to extract precious metals and stones from the earth, reaching into its deepest recesses. However, the central theme is that despite this ingenuity, wisdom remains elusive and beyond human discovery or purchase. gâbîysh is listed alongside other highly valued natural resources—coral (`{{H7416}}`) and rubies (`{{H6443}}`)—as a benchmark for earthly wealth. The explicit declaration that "the price of wisdom is above rubies" (and implicitly, above coral and crystal) serves to elevate divine wisdom to a plane far exceeding any material treasure. The repetition of gâbîysh within the verse emphasizes its status as a pinnacle of earthly value, yet one that pales in comparison to the inestimable worth of true wisdom, which God alone possesses and reveals.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary conceptual connections for H1378 (גָּבִישׁ, *gâbîysh*) are found within the semantic field of precious materials and their inherent value.
* **Precious Stones and Metals:** It is closely associated with other valuable commodities mentioned in Job 28, such as gold (`{{H2091}}`, `{{H5908}}`), silver (`{{H3701}}`), and various precious stones (e.g., `{{H6881}}` for "onyx" or "lapis lazuli," `{{H5458}}` for "sapphire," `{{H6443}}` for "rubies," and `{{H7416}}` for "coral"). These words collectively form a lexicon of ultimate earthly wealth.
* **Purity and Brilliance:** The inherent qualities of "crystal" (clarity, transparency, hardness) link it to concepts of purity, perfection, and brilliance. While not explicitly developed in the Old Testament context of gâbîysh, these attributes are often associated with divine glory and heavenly realms in biblical imagery (e.g., the "sea of glass, like crystal" in [[Revelation 4:6]] or the "pure river of water of life, clear as crystal" in [[Revelation 22:1]], where the Greek word is `{{G2930}}`).
* **Wisdom:** Most significantly, gâbîysh stands in direct contrast to "wisdom" (`{{H2451}}`, *chokmah*) in Job 28. This juxtaposition highlights wisdom as the ultimate, immeasurable treasure, unattainable by human effort or material exchange.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of H1378 (גָּבִישׁ, *gâbîysh*) is profound, primarily derived from its singular context in Job 28.
* **The Transcendent Value of Divine Wisdom:** The most prominent theological insight is the radical distinction between the highest earthly treasures and the incomparable worth of divine wisdom. gâbîysh, representing the epitome of material wealth and beauty, is declared to be utterly worthless when set against the backdrop of God's wisdom. This underscores a core biblical principle: true value resides not in what humanity can acquire or produce, but in the divine knowledge and understanding that originate with God.
* **Human Limitations and Divine Sovereignty:** The inability of humanity to "find" or "purchase" wisdom, even with the most precious of materials like gâbîysh, highlights the limitations of human endeavor and intellect. Wisdom is hidden from human eyes and known only to God (Job 28:20-23). This reinforces God's absolute sovereignty over all knowledge, truth, and the very fabric of existence.
* **Critique of Materialism:** By presenting gâbîysh as insufficient currency for wisdom, the text implicitly critiques a worldview that places ultimate value on material possessions. It serves as a stark reminder that earthly riches, no matter how beautiful or rare, are ultimately transient and cannot satisfy the deepest human need for understanding and purpose, which only divine wisdom can provide.
### Summary
The Hebrew word H1378 (גָּבִישׁ, *gâbîysh*) signifies "crystal" or "pearl," deriving from a root suggesting "to freeze," emphasizing its characteristics of clarity, hardness, and high value. Its only two occurrences in the Bible are found in [[Job 28:18]], where it is listed among the most precious earthly commodities. In this context, gâbîysh functions as a powerful symbol of ultimate material wealth, yet it is explicitly contrasted with the immeasurable and unattainable worth of divine wisdom. Theologically, gâbîysh underscores the supreme value of God's wisdom over all earthly treasures, highlighting the limitations of human acquisition and the transcendent, unsearchable nature of God's knowledge. It serves as a poignant reminder that true riches are found not in material possessions, but in the divine wisdom that originates solely with the Creator.
TRV