from קָבַב; the paunch (as a cavity) or first stomach of ruminants; maw.
Transliteration:qêbâh
Pronunciation:kay-baw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word קֵבָה (qêbâh) `{{H6896}}` is defined as "the paunch (as a cavity) or first stomach of ruminants; maw." It is derived from the root קָבַב (qābaḇ) `{{H6895}}`, which primarily means "to curse" or "to pierce/hollow out." The connection to the root, particularly the sense of "hollowing out" or "cavity," directly informs the meaning of qêbâh as a hollow organ. Its semantic range is exceptionally narrow, referring exclusively to a specific anatomical part of certain animals, namely the rumen, the largest compartment of a ruminant's stomach. This term is not used metaphorically or for human anatomy.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word קֵבָה (qêbâh) `{{H6896}}` appears only once in the entire Hebrew Bible, in [[Deuteronomy 18:3]]. This verse details the portions of sacrificial animals that are to be given to the priests: "And this shall be the priests' due from the people, from those who offer a sacrifice, whether ox or sheep: they shall give to the priest the shoulder, the two cheeks, and the maw (קֵבָה)."
In this context, the qêbâh is listed as one of three specific parts of the sacrificial animal that are designated for the priests. The inclusion of this particular organ, alongside the more commonly recognized "shoulder" and "cheeks," underscores the meticulous nature of the Mosaic Law regarding offerings. It highlights the divine provision for the Levitical priesthood, ensuring their sustenance through the offerings brought by the people. The qêbâh would have been a substantial and perhaps fatty portion, contributing significantly to the priests' livelihood. Its explicit mention demonstrates the precise and detailed instructions given for the sacred economy of Israel.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the root קָבָב (qābaḇ) `{{H6895}}`, from which קֵבָה is derived. While qābaḇ most famously means "to curse" (as seen in the Balaam narrative), its secondary meaning of "to pierce" or "to hollow out" provides the etymological link to qêbâh as a hollow organ or cavity. However, the semantic fields of "cursing" and "animal stomach" are otherwise distinct.
In terms of anatomical terminology, qêbâh stands apart due to its specificity. Other Hebrew terms for internal organs, such as מֵעִים (mēʿîm) `{{H4578}}` ("bowels" or "intestines"), are more general. The precision of qêbâh reflects the detailed nature of the sacrificial laws. The concept also relates to the broader category of "priestly dues" or "portions" (מִשְׁפָּט - mishpat `{{H4941}}` in the sense of a prescribed due), which define the economic and social framework for the priesthood's support within the covenant community.
### Theological Significance
The singular mention of קֵבָה (qêbâh) `{{H6896}}` carries significant theological weight within the context of divine law and provision.
1. **Divine Provision for Ministry:** The command to give the qêbâ to the priests exemplifies God's faithful and detailed provision for those consecrated to His service. It ensures that the priests, who had no tribal land inheritance, were sustained directly by the offerings of the people, thereby enabling them to devote themselves fully to their sacred duties. This underscores the principle that those who serve the Lord are to be supported by the community.
2. **Holiness and Order:** The explicit specification of which parts of the animal belong to the priests reinforces the meticulous order and holiness inherent in the Mosaic Law. Every detail, down to specific anatomical portions, was divinely ordained, emphasizing the sacredness of the sacrificial system and the distinct role of the priesthood. It teaches Israel about the importance of obedience to divine decrees in all aspects of life, including the seemingly mundane.
3. **Practicality of God's Law:** The inclusion of such a specific, practical detail demonstrates the comprehensive and tangible nature of God's instructions. It is not merely abstract theology but a living law designed to function within the daily realities of the Israelite community, ensuring both the proper conduct of worship and the welfare of its ministers.
### Summary
The Hebrew word קֵבָה (qêbâh) `{{H6896}}` precisely denotes the "maw" or "first stomach of ruminants," emphasizing its nature as a hollow cavity, a meaning derived from its root קָבָב `{{H6895}}`. Its sole biblical appearance in [[Deuteronomy 18:3]] is critical, where it is listed among the specific portions of sacrificial animals designated for the priests. This inclusion highlights God's meticulous and faithful provision for the Levitical priesthood, ensuring their sustenance through the offerings of the people. Theologically, qêbâh serves as a testament to the divine care for those in ministry, the precise order and holiness demanded by God's law, and the practical, detailed nature of His covenant instructions for the community of Israel.
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