a primitive root; to admit, i.e. take (literally or figuratively); choose, (take) hold, receive, (under-) take.
Transliteration:qâbal
Pronunciation:kaw-bal'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew verb `{{H6901}}` (qâbal) is a primitive root, carrying the fundamental sense of "to admit," "to take," or "to receive." Unlike some more general verbs of taking, `{{H6901}}` often implies an intentional act of acceptance, welcome, or undertaking. Its semantic range extends beyond mere physical acquisition to include the acceptance of concepts, responsibilities, or even adverse circumstances. Key nuances include:
* **To receive/accept:** This is the most common and direct meaning, whether receiving an object, a person, or a message.
* **To take hold/grasp:** Implies an active engagement with what is being received.
* **To choose/select:** In some contexts, it suggests a deliberate decision to accept or embrace.
* **To undertake/assume:** Denotes taking on a task, responsibility, or commitment.
The word highlights a volitional aspect in the act of receiving, emphasizing the subject's disposition towards the object or situation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb `{{H6901}}` appears sparingly in the Hebrew Bible, but its occurrences are significant, often highlighting moments of profound human response.
In the book of Esther, `{{H6901}}` describes the Jews' decisive action: "So the Jews undertook (qâbal) and made it a custom for themselves and their descendants and all who joined them, that they would celebrate these two days..." [[Esther 9:27]]. Here, "undertook" signifies a willing and binding commitment to observe the feast of Purim, not merely a passive reception of a decree. It conveys a corporate decision to accept and perpetuate a tradition. Similarly, in [[Esther 9:23]], the Jews "accepted" (qâbal) what they had begun to do, reinforcing the idea of a self-imposed, deliberate adoption.
A poignant theological use is found in Job's response to suffering: "But he said to her, 'You speak as one of the foolish women speaks. Shall we indeed accept (qâbal) good from God and not accept (qâbal) adversity?'" [[Job 2:10]]. This verse powerfully illustrates the core meaning of `{{H6901}}` as the intentional acceptance of both blessings and trials from the hand of God, demonstrating profound trust and submission to divine sovereignty.
In 1 Chronicles, `{{H6901}}` is used to describe a welcoming reception: "Then the Spirit came upon Amasai, chief of the thirty, and he said, 'We are yours, David, and with you, son of Jesse! Peace, peace to you, and peace to him who helps you, for your God helps you.' Then David received (qâbal) them and made them officers of his troops." [[1 Chronicles 12:18]]. Here, David "received" them, implying a gracious welcome and acceptance into his ranks, acknowledging their loyalty.
In Ezra, the verb describes the literal reception of sacred items: "So the priests and the Levites received (qâbal) the silver, the gold, and the articles by weight, to bring them to Jerusalem to the house of our God." [[Ezra 8:30]]. This usage underscores the careful and responsible acceptance of entrusted goods.
Lamentations offers another powerful instance: "Let him offer his cheek to the one who strikes him; let him be filled with disgrace." [[Lamentations 3:30]]. While the ESV translates "be filled with disgrace," other translations render it "let him accept disgrace" or "receive insult," capturing the nuance of `{{H6901}}` as a posture of humble endurance in the face of affliction.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of "receiving" and "taking" in Hebrew is rich, and `{{H6901}}` stands alongside other significant terms, each with its distinct emphasis.
* **`{{H3947}}` (lāqaḥ):** This is a much more common and general verb for "to take" or "to receive." It can imply seizing, acquiring, or taking possession, often without the specific nuance of intentional acceptance or welcoming that `{{H6901}}` carries. For example, one might `{{H3947}}` a wife, but `{{H6901}}` a responsibility.
* **`{{H5375}}` (nāśāʾ):** Meaning "to lift," "to bear," or "to carry," `{{H5375}}` can sometimes overlap with "receiving" in the sense of taking on a burden or responsibility (e.g., "to bear iniquity"). While related to "undertake," `{{H6901}}` emphasizes the acceptance of the burden, whereas `{{H5375}}` focuses on the act of bearing it.
* **`{{H977}}` (bāḥar):** Meaning "to choose" or "to select," this verb directly relates to the "choose" aspect of `{{H6901}}`'s definition. The act of `{{H6901}}` often implies a prior or concurrent act of `{{H977}}` – one chooses to accept.
* **`{{H6213}}` (ʿāśāh):** "To do," "to make," or "to perform." This verb is related to the "undertake" aspect of `{{H6901}}`, as undertaking a task leads to doing it. However, `{{H6901}}` focuses on the initial acceptance or commitment to the task, while `{{H6213}}` describes its execution.
`{{H6901}}` distinguishes itself by consistently highlighting the intentionality and disposition of the receiver. It's not just about taking something into possession, but about embracing it, whether it be a command, a person, or a difficult circumstance.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6901}}` lies primarily in its portrayal of human response to divine will and life's circumstances.
1. **Submission and Trust in God's Sovereignty:** Job 2:10 is the quintessential example. Job's willingness to "accept" both good and adversity from God exemplifies profound faith and submission to divine providence. It underscores the theological truth that God is sovereign over all aspects of life, and true piety involves trusting His hand in both blessing and trial. This acceptance is not passive resignation but an active, faith-filled embrace of God's wisdom and purpose, even when it is inscrutable.
2. **Covenantal Commitment and Obedience:** The use of `{{H6901}}` in Esther 9:27 highlights the voluntary and binding nature of commitment within a community, particularly in relation to divine commands or traditions. The Jews "undertook" to observe Purim, signifying their active participation in God's redemptive plan and their commitment to His statutes. This points to the reciprocal nature of covenant, where human beings are called to willingly embrace and live out their obligations to God.
3. **Reception of Leadership and Community:** David's "receiving" of Amasai and his men in 1 Chronicles 12:18 illustrates the theological concept of welcoming and affirming those who align themselves with God's chosen leaders. It speaks to the importance of unity, loyalty, and the gracious acceptance of those who commit themselves to a common, divinely-ordained purpose.
4. **Endurance in Suffering:** The implication of "accepting disgrace" in Lamentations 3:30, while challenging, points to a posture of endurance and humility in the face of suffering, potentially even a form of redemptive suffering. This aligns with a broader biblical theme of finding strength and purpose in affliction through a posture of acceptance before God.
### Summary
The Hebrew verb `{{H6901}}` (qâbal) signifies an intentional act of "receiving," "taking hold of," or "undertaking." Unlike more general verbs of acquisition, `{{H6901}}` emphasizes the volitional aspect of acceptance, whether it pertains to physical objects, responsibilities, or challenging life circumstances. Its occurrences in texts like Esther, Job, 1 Chronicles, Ezra, and Lamentations reveal its profound theological implications. It portrays a human response characterized by trust in divine sovereignty, willing covenantal commitment, gracious reception within community, and resilient endurance in suffering. The word thus speaks to the active and deliberate posture of faith required in navigating the complexities of life under God's providential care.
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