### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **geber**, represented by `{{H1397}}`, is derived from a root meaning to be strong, and its base definition is "properly, a valiant man or warrior; generally, a person simply." It appears 68 times across 64 unique verses in the Bible. This term often carries a connotation of strength, maturity, and capability, distinguishing it from other words for "man."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H1397}}` appears in several distinct contexts. It is frequently used to describe the ideal individual in relation to God, as seen in passages that state "blessed is the **man** that trusteth in him" [[Psalms 34:8]] and "Blessed is the **man** that trusteth in the LORD" [[Jeremiah 17:7]]. Conversely, it is used to warn against misplaced faith: "Cursed be the **man** that trusteth in man" [[Jeremiah 17:5]]. The word also denotes strength and readiness, as when God commands Job to "Gird up now thy loins like a **man**" [[Job 38:3]]. Furthermore, it specifies a male individual in legal and prophetic contexts, such as the law against cross-dressing [[Deuteronomy 22:5]] and the prophecy that "A woman shall compass a **man**" [[Jeremiah 31:22]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the specific meaning of **geber**:
* `{{H376}}` **'îysh** (a man as an individual or a male person): This common term for man is sometimes used in parallel with `{{H1397}}` to emphasize the subject, as in the description of the oppressive who target "a **man** `{{H1397}}` and his house, even a **man** `{{H376}}` and his heritage" [[Micah 2:2]].
* `{{H120}}` **'âdâm** (a human being, mankind): This word refers to humanity more broadly. The contrast is sharp in [[Jeremiah 17:5]], which distinguishes between the strong **man** `{{H1397}}` who trusts and "man" `{{H120}}` as the fallible object of that trust.
* `{{H582}}` **'ĕnôwsh** (properly, a mortal): This term emphasizes human frailty. In [[Job 4:17]], the two are used to question human righteousness before God: "Shall mortal **man** `{{H582}}` be more just than God? shall a **man** `{{H1397}}` be more pure than his maker?"
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1397}}` is significant, highlighting key principles of faith and human nature.
* **The Condition for Blessing:** The use of **geber** is central to defining the man who receives divine blessing. This individual is characterized not by his own might, but by his trust in the LORD [[Psalms 40:4]], his acceptance of God's chastening [[Psalms 94:12]], and his fear of the LORD [[Psalms 128:4]].
* **Strength Under Sovereignty:** While **geber** implies a strong and capable person, scripture places this strength firmly under divine authority. [[Proverbs 20:24]] states, "**Man's** goings are of the LORD," suggesting that a man's valiant efforts are ultimately guided by a higher power.
* **Humanity's Place:** The term is used in the book of Job to frame humanity's relationship to the Creator. It poses critical questions about whether a **man** can be profitable to God [[Job 22:2]] or possess a purity comparable to his maker [[Job 4:17]], thereby defining the limits of human virtue and strength.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1397}}` is far more than a simple synonym for "man." It denotes a person of strength, a warrior, or a capable individual. Through its use, the Bible presents a model of ideal manhood—one who, despite his own potential strength, finds true blessing and purpose by placing his trust entirely in the LORD. From defining the blessed individual to questioning the limits of human ability before God, **geber** serves as a crucial term for understanding responsibility, valor, and faith.
TRV