The Hebrew word gâdêl, represented by H1432, is a term signifying something large or that has grew. It appears 4 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible. Derived from its primitive root, H1431, it describes growth and greatness in both literal and figurative senses, applying to people, status, and physical attributes.
In its biblical usage, H1432 marks a process of significant increase. It is used to describe personal development, as seen when the child Samuel grew on in favor with both God and men 1 Samuel 2:26. It also denotes a rise in status and wealth, such as when Isaac grew until he became very great Genesis 26:13, or when King Jehoshaphat "waxed great exceedingly" 2 Chronicles 17:12. The term can also be used pejoratively, as in Ezekiel's description of the Egyptians as neighbors who were "great of flesh," linking their physical size to Israel's spiritual fornication Ezekiel 16:26.
Several related words provide a broader context for the concept of greatness and growth:
- H1431 gâdal (to be... make large): As the primitive root of H1432, this word is used to describe the act of causing greatness. God promises to make Abraham's name great Genesis 12:2, and the psalmist calls on the faithful to magnify the LORD Psalms 34:3.
- H5288 naʻar (a boy... child, servant): This term appears alongside H1432 to specify the subject of growth. For example, it is the child Samuel who grew in favor 1 Samuel 2:26. The word is used broadly to refer to a young man Psalms 119:9 or lad Genesis 22:12.
- H7235 râbâh (to increase): This word often parallels the idea of becoming great. In Ezekiel's prophecy, it is used alongside H1432 to describe how Israel has increased her whoredoms with her neighbors who were great of flesh Ezekiel 16:26. It also describes God's power to enlarge territory 1 Chronicles 4:10.
The concept of becoming H1432 great carries significant theological weight, often tied to one's relationship with God.
- Divine Favor and Growth: Personal greatness is frequently presented as a result of divine favor. Samuel grew while also being "in favour with the LORD" 1 Samuel 2:26, and Isaac's journey to becoming great is a direct result of God's blessing Genesis 26:13.
- Magnifying God: The root word H1431 shifts the focus from human greatness to divine greatness. Believers are called to magnify the LORD Psalms 34:3, acknowledging that God's works are great Psalms 92:5 and that He alone holds the power "to make great" 1 Chronicles 29:12.
- Perverted Greatness: The term can also illustrate a corrupted form of greatness. Ezekiel uses H1432 to describe Egypt's "great of flesh" as part of a condemnation of Israel's spiritual adultery, showing that worldly or physical greatness can be associated with sin Ezekiel 16:26.
In summary, H1432 gâdêl, while appearing only a few times, captures a dynamic concept of growth and size. From the personal development of a favored child like Samuel 1 Samuel 2:26 to the expanding influence of a patriarch like Isaac Genesis 26:13, the word marks significant increase. Its connection to the root H1431 elevates the concept from mere physical or material growth to the ultimate greatness of God, who is to be magnified above all. It demonstrates how the Bible uses the idea of becoming great to measure both divine blessing and human failing.
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