### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma גְּבַר (gᵉbar), Strong's H1399, is an Aramaic term that functions as the equivalent of the Hebrew גֶּבֶר (geber, `{{H1397}}`). It is derived from the root גָּבַר (gabar, `{{H1396}}`), which signifies "to be strong," "to prevail," or "to be mighty." Consequently, while גְּבַר can simply denote "a man" or "a person," it carries an inherent semantic nuance of strength, capability, or maturity, distinguishing it from broader terms for humanity like אָדָם (adam, `{{H0120}}`) or אִישׁ (ish, `{{H0376}}`). It refers to a male individual, often emphasizing his vigor or capacity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
As an Aramaic word, גְּבַר (gᵉbar, `{{H1399}}`) appears exclusively in the Aramaic portions of the books of Daniel and Ezra. Its usage consistently aligns with its core meaning of "man" or "person," often in contexts where the strength or identity of the individual is implicitly relevant.
In Daniel, we find several occurrences:
* In [[Daniel 2:31]], it describes the "great image" seen by Nebuchadnezzar, referring to the "man" (the figure) composed of various metals, symbolizing human kingdoms. Here, the term points to the form and perceived power of human dominion.
* [[Daniel 3:8]] mentions "Chaldean men" who accused the Jews, highlighting their specific identity and role in the narrative.
* In [[Daniel 5:10]], the queen refers to Daniel as a "man" in whom was the spirit of the holy gods, emphasizing his unique spiritual insight and capability.
* [[Daniel 6:5]] speaks of the "men" (conspirators) who sought to find occasion against Daniel, identifying them as active agents in the plot.
* [[Daniel 6:13]] similarly refers to "men" who brought the accusation against Daniel.
In Ezra, its single occurrence is in [[Ezra 4:10]], where it refers to the "men" (the various peoples) whom Osnappar settled in Samaria, indicating the diverse population groups.
Across these contexts, גְּבַר serves to identify individuals or groups of males, often those in positions of power, influence, or agency within the narrative. While it can be a neutral descriptor, its root connection to "strength" subtly reinforces the active or prominent role of these "men."
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is its Hebrew equivalent, גֶּבֶר (geber, `{{H1397}}`), which is explicitly stated in the definition as being "the same as." Therefore, the semantic range and nuances of `{{H1397}}` directly inform the understanding of `{{H1399}}`. Both terms emphasize a "strong man," a "mighty man," or a man in his prime and vigor.
The root verb, גָּבַר (gabar, `{{H1396}}`), meaning "to be strong, to prevail, to be mighty," is foundational. This root is used to describe God's might ([[Psalm 65:6]]), the strength of a nation ([[Numbers 13:28]]), or the prevailing of a flood ([[Genesis 7:18]]). This underlying concept of strength is subtly carried into the nominal form גְּבַר.
Other Hebrew words for "man" include:
* אָדָם (adam, `{{H0120}}`): A generic term for humankind, often emphasizing humanity's origin from the earth (adamah) and its shared nature.
* אִישׁ (ish, `{{H0376}}`): Refers to a male individual, a husband, or a person, often emphasizing individuality or social role.
* אֱנוֹשׁ (enosh, `{{H0582}}`): Often highlights human frailty, mortality, or weakness in contrast to divine power.
In contrast to these, גְּבַר (and its Hebrew counterpart גֶּבֶר) tends to highlight the strength, capability, or active role of the man being described.
### Theological Significance
While גְּבַר (gᵉbar, `{{H1399}}`) is primarily a descriptive term for "man" in Aramaic, its etymological link to "strength" and "prevailing" carries subtle theological implications, especially within the book of Daniel. In Daniel, earthly kingdoms and their rulers, represented by the "man" (גְּבַר) of the statue in [[Daniel 2:31]], are depicted as possessing great, albeit temporary, power. The narrative consistently contrasts this human strength with the absolute and eternal sovereignty of God. The "men" (גְּבַר) who conspire against Daniel, despite their worldly power, ultimately fail to overcome the divine protection afforded to God's servant.
This term, therefore, implicitly serves to highlight the contrast between human strength and divine omnipotence. Even "mighty men" are subject to God's ultimate rule. It reminds the reader that true strength and prevailing power reside not in human endeavors or earthly rulers, but in the divine. The term can also, by extension, evoke the human potential for strength and action, but always within the framework of God's overarching plan and power.
### Summary
גְּבַר (gᵉbar, `{{H1399}}`) is an Aramaic noun, equivalent to the Hebrew גֶּבֶר (geber, `{{H1397}}`), derived from the root גָּבַר (gabar, `{{H1396}}`) meaning "to be strong" or "to prevail." It denotes "a man" or "a person," often with an underlying connotation of strength, capability, or maturity. Its occurrences are limited to the Aramaic sections of Daniel and Ezra, where it consistently refers to male individuals or groups, frequently in contexts that highlight their active roles or perceived power within the narrative. Theologically, its usage in Daniel subtly underscores the contrast between human strength and the ultimate, prevailing power of God, reminding believers that all human might is subordinate to divine sovereignty.
TRV