### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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