The Hebrew word Gᵉbâl, represented by H1381, refers to Gebal, a region in Idumaea. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible, making its sole appearance highly specific in its context.
The single biblical reference to H1381 is found in Psalms 83:7. In this verse, Gebal is listed as part of a confederation of nations and peoples who have gathered against Israel. It is named alongside Ammon, Amalek, the Philistines, and the inhabitants of Tyre, identifying it as an enemy of God's people.
The context of Psalms 83:7 links Gᵉbâl directly with several other peoples, all of whom were known adversaries of Israel:
- H5983 ʻAmmôwn: This term refers to Ammon, a son of Lot; also his posterity and their country. The Ammonites are frequently depicted as adversaries in conflict with Israel Judges 11:27.
- H6002 ʻĂmâlêq: This name identifies Amalek, a descendant of Esau; also his posterity and their country. Amalek is remembered for opposing Israel after the exodus from Egypt, leading to a divine command to blot out their memory Deuteronomy 25:19.
- H6429 Pᵉlesheth: Defined as rolling, i.e. migratory; Pelesheth, a region of Syria, it is the name for Philistia or Palestine. The people of this region are consistently portrayed as neighbors and opponents of Israel Joel 3:4.
- H6865 Tsôr: Meaning a rock; Tsor, a place in Palestine, this refers to the city of Tyre. Tyre is often mentioned in prophecies and is included with Philistia in lists of nations Psalms 87:4.
The theological weight of H1381 is derived entirely from its association with the enemies of Israel.
- A Symbol of Hostile Alliance: The primary significance of Gᵉbâl comes from its inclusion in the list of Israel's enemies in Psalms 83:7. It represents one part of a larger, unified front arrayed against God's people.
- Geographic Antagonism: By being named with Ammon, Amalek, and the Philistines, Gebal helps to paint a picture of a nation surrounded by hostile forces, contributing to the psalmist's plea for divine intervention.
- Recipient of Judgment: As a member of this enemy coalition, Gebal is included among those whom the psalmist asks God to judge, underscoring the theme that those who conspire against God's people are subject to His divine justice.
In summary, H1381 Gᵉbâl is a name whose biblical meaning is defined entirely by its single appearance. It is not mentioned in isolation but as a member of a league of nations hostile to Israel in Psalms 83:7. Its importance, therefore, is not as an independent entity but as a contributor to the collective opposition that God's people faced, serving as a reminder of the forces aligned against them.
TRV