intensive of גְּבַר; Gibbar, an Israelite; Gibbar.
Transliteration:Gibbâr
Pronunciation:ghib-bawr'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H1402}}`, transliterated as *Gibbâr*, is identified in its base definition as a proper noun, referring to an Israelite individual or, more likely given its context, the head of a family or clan. The Strong's definition notes it as an "intensive of `{{H1396}}` (gabar)," suggesting that the *name* itself is derived from the root meaning "to be strong, mighty, or to prevail." Thus, while `{{H1402}}` itself is a personal name, its etymological roots imbue it with connotations of strength or valor. It is crucial to distinguish `{{H1402}}` (the proper noun "Gibbar") from `{{H1368}}` (גִּבּוֹר, *gibbor*), which is the common noun meaning "mighty man" or "hero," despite their shared linguistic origin and similar appearance. `{{H1402}}` does not function as an adjective or common noun but exclusively as a specific identifier.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H1402}}` appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the genealogical lists of those who returned from the Babylonian exile:
* [[Ezra 2:20]]: "The children of Gibbar, ninety-five."
This verse lists the descendants of Gibbar as one of the families returning with Zerubbabel. The context is a detailed register of the returnees, emphasizing the re-establishment of the community and the importance of lineage for tribal and cultic identity.
Notably, a textual variant exists in the parallel passage in Nehemiah:
* [[Nehemiah 7:25]]: "The children of Gibeon, ninety-five."
Here, the name is given as `{{H1391}}` (Gibeon), which refers either to the inhabitants of the city of Gibeon or a family associated with that place. The identical number of returnees (ninety-five) strongly suggests that [[Ezra 2:20]] and [[Nehemiah 7:25]] refer to the same group. Scholars generally lean towards "Gibeon" as the more probable original reading, given its geographical and historical prominence. If so, "Gibbar" in Ezra might be a scribal error or an alternative, perhaps less common, designation for the same family or locale. Regardless, in the context of Ezra, "Gibbar" functions as a patriarchal name identifying a particular family unit.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the verbal root `{{H1396}}` (גָּבַר, *gabar*), meaning "to be strong, mighty, prevail, overcome." This root is the etymological source for the name "Gibbar," implying that the individual or family name carried the inherent meaning of strength or dominance.
Another closely related, yet distinct, term is `{{H1368}}` (גִּבּוֹר, *gibbor*), the common noun derived from `{{H1396}}` that consistently means "mighty man," "hero," or "warrior." While `{{H1402}}` shares its linguistic heritage with `{{H1368}}`, it is imperative to remember that `{{H1402}}` is a proper noun, whereas `{{H1368}}` is a descriptive noun.
The textual variant in [[Nehemiah 7:25]] introduces `{{H1391}}` (גִּבְעוֹן, *Gibeon*), the name of a significant Hivite city in Canaan, later allocated to Benjamin and designated as a Levitical city. This highlights the fluidity and potential for minor variations in ancient manuscript transmission.
The broader concept of "sons of X" (בְּנֵי, *b'nei*) is also relevant, as it signifies a lineage, clan, or family group, which is the primary way `{{H1402}}` is presented in the biblical text. This structure underscores the importance of tribal and family identity in post-exilic Israel.
### Theological Significance
Given its singular occurrence as a proper noun and the presence of a textual variant, the direct theological significance of `{{H1402}}` (Gibbar) is limited. However, several broader theological points can be gleaned:
1. **Theology of Names:** The etymology of "Gibbar" from `{{H1396}}` (to be strong) reflects the biblical practice of giving names that convey meaning, hope, or a characteristic. While we know nothing of the individual Gibbar, his name would have evoked the concept of strength or might, perhaps a desired trait for his descendants or a reflection of his own character. This underscores God's sovereignty over history and individuals, even those whose stories remain largely untold.
2. **Divine Providence in Restoration:** The inclusion of families like "the children of Gibbar" in the return from exile emphasizes God's faithfulness in fulfilling His covenant promises to restore His people to their land. Every name listed, no matter how obscure to modern readers, represents a tangible fulfillment of prophecy and a testament to divine providence in rebuilding the community of faith.
3. **Textual Fidelity and Transmission:** The textual variant between Ezra and Nehemiah, while minor, serves as a valuable insight into the meticulous yet human process of biblical transmission. It highlights the work of textual criticism in affirming the general reliability of the biblical text while acknowledging small discrepancies that do not impact core theological doctrines. It reinforces the reverence with which the scriptures have been preserved across millennia.
### Summary
`{{H1402}}` (גִּבָּר, *Gibbâr*) is a proper noun referring to an Israelite individual or, more likely, the progenitor of a family or clan. It appears only once in [[Ezra 2:20]] as part of the list of those who returned from Babylonian exile. Etymologically, the name "Gibbar" is derived from the root `{{H1396}}` ("to be strong, mighty"), distinguishing it from the common noun `{{H1368}}` ("mighty man"). A significant textual variant in [[Nehemiah 7:25]] renders the name as `{{H1391}}` (Gibeon), suggesting either a scribal difference or an alternate designation for the same group. While `{{H1402}}` holds limited direct theological significance due to its singular and variant occurrence, it contributes to the broader biblical themes of the importance of lineage, God's faithfulness in restoration, and the nature of scriptural transmission.
TRV