from קָבַל in the sense of confronting (as standing opposite in order to receive); a battering-ram; war.
Transliteration:qôbel
Pronunciation:ko'-bel
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term קֹבֶל (qôbel, `{{H6904}}`) is a rare but potent word, deriving from the root קָבַל (qābal). The fundamental sense of קָבָל often involves "receiving" or "accepting," but in the context from which `{{H6904}}` is drawn, it carries the nuance of "confronting" or "standing opposite in order to receive." This specific derivation highlights a direct, forceful encounter. Consequently, `{{H6904}}` semantically extends to denote an instrument of war designed for such confrontation: a "battering-ram." By extension, it can also refer to the broader concept of "war" itself, particularly in its aggressive, confrontational aspect. The imagery is one of an irresistible force meeting an immovable object, with the intent of breaking through.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word קֹבֶל (qôbel, `{{H6904}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, found in the prophetic book of Ezekiel.
* **[[Ezekiel 26:9]]**: "And he will direct the shock of his battering rams against your walls, and with his axes he will break down your towers."
In this solitary occurrence, `{{H6904}}` is explicitly used to describe the "battering rams" (קֹבֶל) employed by Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, in his prophesied siege against the city of Tyre. The context is a vivid and detailed prophecy of Tyre's destruction, highlighting the overwhelming military might that God would bring against the proud city. The "battering ram" here is not merely a tool but a symbol of the relentless and destructive force of the siege, designed to breach the formidable defenses of Tyre. The verse immediately follows descriptions of cavalry, chariots, and a vast army, underscoring the comprehensive nature of the assault. The use of `{{H6904}}` emphasizes the direct, physical assault on the city's fortifications, signifying inevitable collapse.
### Related Words & Concepts
The root קָבָל (qābal) from which `{{H6904}}` is derived, often means "to receive" or "to accept" (e.g., [[Ezra 8:30]], [[Esther 4:4]]). However, the specific nuance of "standing opposite to receive" or "to confront" in the context of `{{H6904}}` is crucial. This sense of direct opposition or confrontation connects it to the violent act of war.
Other words and concepts related to siege warfare that illuminate the context of `{{H6904}}` include:
* מָצוֹר (mātsôr, `{{H4692}}`): "siege," "fortress," or "distress." This word frequently appears in prophetic texts detailing divine judgment through military campaigns.
* סוֹלְלָה (sôlēlāh, `{{H5550}}`): "siege mound" or "earthwork," indicating the ramparts built by besieging armies to gain access to city walls.
* חֵיל (ḥêl, `{{H2426}}`): "rampart" or "outwork," often referring to the defensive structures of a city, which `{{H6904}}` is designed to breach.
* The broader concept of מִלְחָמָה (milḥāmāh, `{{H4421}}`): "war" or "battle," which encompasses the entire military engagement of which the battering ram is a part.
The destructive power of `{{H6904}}` is also linked to the imagery of "breaking down" (יִפְרוֹץ - yifrōts from פָּרַץ, pāraṣ, `{{H6555}}`) and "smashing" (יִתֹּץ - yittōts from נָתַץ, nātaṣ, `{{H5422}}`), verbs frequently used in contexts of divine judgment and the overthrow of nations.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of קֹבֶל (qôbel, `{{H6904}}`) in [[Ezekiel 26:9]] is profoundly significant within the larger theological framework of divine sovereignty and judgment. The battering ram, a symbol of irresistible destructive force, is presented not as a random instrument of human ambition but as a tool in God's hand. Nebuchadnezzar's army, with its advanced siege weaponry, becomes an instrument of Yahweh's wrath against Tyre, a city notorious for its pride, wealth, and defiance against God's will.
This highlights several theological truths:
1. **Divine Sovereignty over Nations**: God uses earthly powers, even pagan kings and their formidable military technology, to accomplish His purposes and execute His judgments. The battering ram, an emblem of human military might, is ultimately subservient to divine decree.
2. **Consequence for Pride and Sin**: Tyre's destruction, facilitated by instruments like the `{{H6904}}`, serves as a stark reminder that no city, no matter how fortified or wealthy, is immune to the consequences of its rebellion against God.
3. **Irresistible Judgment**: The imagery of the battering ram breaking down walls conveys the inevitability and crushing force of God's judgment. There is no defense strong enough to withstand His determined will.
4. **Prophetic Fulfillment**: The precise description of siege warfare, including the use of `{{H6904}}`, underscores the accuracy and reliability of God's prophetic word.
### Summary
קֹבֶל (qôbel, `{{H6904}}`) is a rare but powerful Hebrew term, stemming from the root קָבָל in the sense of "confronting." It primarily denotes a "battering-ram" and, by extension, the aggressive aspect of "war." Its sole biblical occurrence in [[Ezekiel 26:9]] vividly portrays Nebuchadnezzar's use of such an instrument against the walls of Tyre, symbolizing the overwhelming force of the Babylonian siege. Theologically, `{{H6904}}` serves as a potent reminder of God's absolute sovereignty over nations and their military might, His use of earthly powers as instruments of divine judgment against pride and sin, and the irresistible nature of His prophetic word and consequent judgment. It paints a picture of inevitable destruction for those who stand in defiance of the Almighty.
TRV