### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çâbâʼ**, represented by `{{H5433}}`, is a primitive root meaning to quaff to satiety, or become tipsy. It is used to describe a **drunkard**, someone who fills themselves with drink, or a winebibber. This term appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible, consistently linked to excess and its consequences.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5433}}` is consistently used in a negative context, highlighting a state of rebellion or impending doom. In the Law, a **drunkard** `{{H5433}}` is presented alongside a glutton `{{H2151}}` as a characteristic of a stubborn `{{H5637}}` and rebellious `{{H4784}}` son who will not obey `{{H8085}}` his parents [[Deuteronomy 21:20]]. The book of Proverbs warns against associating with winebibbers `{{H5433}}` and explicitly states that the **drunkard** `{{H5433}}` will come to poverty `{{H3423}}` [[Proverbs 23:20-21]]. The prophets use the term to describe those inviting others to **fill** `{{H5433}}` themselves with strong drink `{{H7941}}` [[Isaiah 56:12]] and as a metaphor for a people vulnerable to destruction, who will be devoured while they are **drunken** `{{H5433}}` [[Nahum 1:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the context surrounding drunkenness:
* `{{H2151}}` **zâlal**: This word for a **glutton** or **riotous eater** is frequently paired with `{{H5433}}` to describe a lifestyle of unrestrained indulgence. It denotes being morally loose or vile and highlights that drunkenness is often accompanied by other forms of excess [[Proverbs 23:21]].
* `{{H3196}}` **yayin**: This is the common Hebrew word for **wine**. Its association with `{{H5433}}` is direct, as seen in the invitation to fetch **wine** `{{H3196}}` [[Isaiah 56:12]] and the warning against being among **winebibbers** `{{H3196}}``{{H5433}}` [[Proverbs 23:20]].
* `{{H7941}}` **shêkâr**: Translated as **strong drink**, this term specifies an intensely alcoholic liquor. It is what the people in [[Isaiah 56:12]] seek to **fill** `{{H5433}}` themselves with, showing a deliberate pursuit of intoxication.
* `{{H3423}}` **yârash**: This root, meaning to **come to poverty** or be dispossessed, is presented as the direct outcome of being a drunkard `{{H5433}}`. It establishes a clear biblical principle of cause and effect, where a life of excess leads to ruin [[Proverbs 23:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5433}}` is demonstrated through its consistent portrayal as a symptom of deeper spiritual problems.
* **A Sign of Rebellion:** Drunkenness is not merely a personal failing but an act of defiance. In [[Deuteronomy 21:20]], it is part of the evidence of a son who is stubborn `{{H5637}}` and rebellious `{{H4784}}`, refusing to obey the voice `{{H6963}}` of his elders `{{H2205}}`.
* **A Path to Poverty:** Scripture directly links the state of being a **drunkard** `{{H5433}}` to material ruin. [[Proverbs 23:21]] warns that this lifestyle, along with gluttony `{{H2151}}`, will result in poverty `{{H3423}}`, as drowsiness `{{H5124}}` will clothe `{{H3847}}` a man with rags `{{H7168}}`.
* **Vulnerability to Judgment:** In [[Nahum 1:10]], being **drunken** `{{H5433}}` is the state of the wicked just before they are devoured `{{H398}}` like dry stubble `{{H7179}}`. This illustrates that indulgence and intoxication lead to a lack of vigilance and an openness to divine judgment.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5433}}` is more than a term for intoxication; it is a biblical marker for a life of self-indulgence that stands in opposition to wisdom and obedience. It functions as a stark warning, linking excessive drinking to moral rebellion, societal breakdown, personal ruin, and divine judgment. The use of **çâbâʼ** underscores that a failure of self-control is often a sign of a heart that has turned away from God and his commands.
TRV