from קָוָה; a (measuring) cord (as if for binding); line.
Transliteration:qâveh
Pronunciation:kaw-veh'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H6961}}` (qâveh), derived from the root `{{H6960}}` (qâvâh), primarily denotes a "cord" or "line." Its fundamental sense is that of a measuring line, a tool used for establishing boundaries, dimensions, or standards. The underlying root `{{H6960}}` carries the meaning "to wait, to hope, to look eagerly for," which subtly informs the noun's semantic range. While primarily a physical object, the "line" can metaphorically represent a standard, a rule, or a measure of truth. The connection to "waiting" or "stretching out" might imply an extended, continuous quality, or a designated path/boundary along which one waits or proceeds.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H6961}}` (qâveh) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in [[Isaiah 28:10]]. This singular occurrence, however, is profoundly significant:
> "For it is precept upon precept, precept upon precept, line upon line, line upon line, here a little, there a little."
In this passage, the prophet Isaiah is delivering a stern rebuke to the scoffing leaders of Jerusalem. They mock the prophet's teaching, deriding it as simplistic and repetitive, akin to the babbling of children. The phrase "line upon line" (קַו לָקָו - qav laqav), where "qav" is the noun form closely related to `{{H6961}}` (and often transliterated identically), refers to the continuous, incremental nature of divine instruction. The repetition emphasizes the perceived tediousness by the unheeding audience. The "line" here functions as a rule, a standard of divine revelation, or a measured portion of truth. The context reveals a contrast between God's patient, progressive method of teaching and humanity's impatient, dismissive response.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relatives of `{{H6961}}` (qâveh) are:
* **`{{H6960}}` (qâvâh):** The verbal root, meaning "to wait, hope, look eagerly for." This connection suggests that a "line" might represent an extended expectation or a course along which one waits. It also implies the patient, drawn-out nature of divine revelation.
* **`{{H6957}}` (qav):** This is the more common noun form derived from `{{H6960}}`, also meaning "cord, measuring line, plumb line." It appears in contexts such as establishing boundaries ([[2 Samuel 8:2]]), measuring ([[Ezekiel 47:3]]), and as a symbol of God's standard of judgment ([[Isaiah 34:11]], [[Lamentations 2:8]]). `{{H6961}}` (qâveh) is essentially a variant or specific form of this concept, uniquely employed in [[Isaiah 28:10]].
Related concepts include:
* **Divine Instruction/Revelation:** The "line" symbolizes the incremental and foundational nature of God's truth.
* **Standard/Measure:** Like a plumb line, it represents God's unyielding standard for righteousness and justice.
* **Patience and Persistence:** The "line upon line" method speaks to God's enduring patience in teaching.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of `{{H6961}}` (qâveh) in [[Isaiah 28:10]] carries profound theological weight. It unveils a crucial aspect of God's pedagogical method:
1. **Progressive Revelation:** God's truth is not always delivered in overwhelming torrents but often "line upon line," incrementally, precept by precept. This patient, repetitive instruction is designed to build understanding and obedience over time.
2. **Divine Standard:** The "line" serves as a metaphor for God's unchanging standard of truth and righteousness. It is the plumb line by which human actions and beliefs are measured.
3. **Human Rebellion:** The context highlights human arrogance and spiritual dullness. The scoffers reject God's "simple" instruction, preferring their own wisdom, leading to their downfall ([[Isaiah 28:13]]). This underscores the danger of despising God's patient teaching.
4. **Foundation for Understanding:** For those who humble themselves, this "line upon line" approach provides the necessary foundation for deep spiritual understanding and growth. It emphasizes the importance of consistent, foundational learning in faith.
### Summary
`{{H6961}}` (qâveh) refers to a "cord" or "line," primarily in the sense of a measuring line or a standard. Though it appears only once in [[Isaiah 28:10]], its context is highly significant. In the phrase "line upon line," it describes God's patient, incremental method of divine instruction, which the unheeding Israelites scornfully rejected. Derived from the root `{{H6960}}` ("to wait, hope"), and closely related to `{{H6957}}` (qav), this "line" metaphorically represents the divine standard of truth and the progressive nature of God's revelation. The theological implication is profound: God's truth is delivered with persistent patience, demanding humble reception rather than arrogant dismissal, for it is the very foundation upon which true understanding and righteousness are built.
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