from an unused root, probably meaning to house in; a kind of tree or wood (as used for building), apparently the cypress; gopher.
Transliteration:gôpher
Pronunciation:go'-fer
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term גֹּפֶר (gôpher), Strong's H1613, derives from an unused root, which the base definition suggests likely meant "to house in." This etymological hint points to the wood's primary function in construction, particularly for creating enclosures or coverings. Semantically, it denotes a specific type of tree or the wood derived from it, suitable for building. While its precise botanical identification remains debated among scholars, the most widely accepted identification is "cypress wood." This identification aligns with the properties required for its sole biblical use: a durable, resinous, and naturally water-resistant timber, ideal for shipbuilding and structures requiring longevity and impermeability. The semantic range of gôpher is exceptionally narrow, pointing exclusively to this particular material.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term גֹּפֶר (gôpher) appears only once in the entire Hebrew Bible, specifically in [[Genesis 6:14]]. This singular occurrence is profoundly significant, as it is part of God's direct command to Noah regarding the construction of the Ark: "Make yourself an ark of gopher wood; make rooms in the ark, and cover it inside and out with pitch." The divine specification of "gopher wood" for such a monumental and critical vessel underscores its unique suitability for the task. The Ark was designed to withstand a global deluge, necessitating a material of exceptional strength, durability, and resistance to water. The subsequent instruction to "cover it inside and out with pitch" (כֹּפֶר - kōpher, `{{H3724}}`) further emphasizes the need for a watertight structure, where the gopher wood provided the foundational integrity and the pitch served as the sealant. This context highlights God's meticulous planning and provision, ensuring the Ark's fitness for its divinely appointed purpose of preserving life through judgment.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given that גֹּפֶר (gôpher) stems from an unused root, direct linguistic cognates are not readily identifiable from the provided definition. However, its conceptual relations are rich. The most immediate conceptual link is to the material used in conjunction with it: pitch (כֹּפֶר - kōpher, `{{H3724}}`), which, despite a possible phonetic similarity, is etymologically distinct but functionally indispensable for the Ark's watertight integrity. Broader related concepts include:
* **Building Materials:** It stands alongside other ancient Near Eastern woods used for construction, though its specific divine designation sets it apart.
* **Durability and Resilience:** The choice of gopher wood speaks to its inherent properties of strength, resistance to decay, and potential buoyancy.
* **Divine Instruction and Wisdom:** The specificity of God's command regarding the wood type underscores His precise knowledge and wisdom in providing the perfect material for the Ark.
* **The Ark as a Vessel of Salvation:** The wood is inextricably linked to the Ark itself, a symbol of divine preservation and the means by which a remnant of humanity and creation was saved from the Flood.
* **Trees and Wood in Scripture:** While specific, it falls under the broader biblical theme of trees and wood (עֵץ - ets, `{{H6086}}`) as resources, often imbued with symbolic meaning (e.g., Tree of Life, Tree of Knowledge).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of גֹּפֶר (gôpher) is profound, despite its singular appearance. Its divine specification in [[Genesis 6:14]] reveals several key theological truths:
* **Divine Precision and Sovereignty:** God's command to Noah was not vague but remarkably precise, even down to the type of wood. This demonstrates God's meticulous planning, His sovereign control over creation, and His perfect wisdom in orchestrating salvation.
* **Divine Provision:** The choice of gopher wood, a material perfectly suited for the Ark's purpose, highlights God's gracious provision for Noah and his family. He not only commanded the task but also provided the means and materials necessary for its successful completion.
* **Symbol of Divine Preservation:** The gopher wood, as the very substance of the Ark, becomes implicitly linked to the theme of divine preservation amidst judgment. It is the tangible manifestation of God's covenant faithfulness to save those whom He chooses.
* **Obedience and Faith:** Noah's act of building the Ark "of gopher wood" as commanded (cf. [[Genesis 6:22]]) exemplifies his unwavering obedience and faith in God's word, even in the face of an unprecedented task. The material itself thus becomes a testament to Noah's faithfulness.
### Summary
גֹּפֶר (gôpher), Strong's H1613, refers to a specific type of wood, most commonly identified as cypress, known for its suitability in robust construction. Its sole biblical mention in [[Genesis 6:14]] is pivotal, as God directly commands Noah to use it for the Ark, a vessel designed for salvation from the global Flood. The divine choice of gopher wood underscores God's meticulous precision, His wise provision of appropriate materials, and His sovereign plan for preservation. While its botanical identity remains somewhat enigmatic, its theological significance is clear: it is the divinely specified material for the Ark, intrinsically linking it to themes of divine wisdom, provision, and the miraculous preservation of life through judgment.
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