### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun `{{H7132}}` (qᵉrâbâh) is derived from the verbal root `{{H7126}}` (qārab), which fundamentally signifies "to draw near," "to approach," or "to come close." As a feminine noun, `{{H7132}}` would denote the act or state of drawing near, proximity, or an approach. While the root `{{H7126}}` encompasses various forms of nearness—physical, temporal, relational, or even hostile—`{{H7132}}` would specifically emphasize the *act* of approaching or the *condition* of being near. Its semantic range, therefore, would naturally align with concepts of access, closeness, and the movement towards another entity or state.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
It is important to note that the Hebrew word `{{H7132}}` (qᵉrâbâh) does not appear in the Masoretic Text of the Hebrew Bible. While its inclusion in lexicons like Strong's Concordance indicates its theoretical derivation from the common root `{{H7126}}` (qārab), this specific noun form is not attested in the biblical corpus.
Despite the absence of `{{H7132}}` itself, the concept of "drawing near" is profoundly significant and frequently expressed through its root `{{H7126}}` and other derivatives. The verb `{{H7126}}` (qārab) is used in various contexts:
* **Physical Proximity:** People drawing near to one another (e.g., [[Genesis 18:23]]), armies approaching for battle (e.g., [[Joshua 8:5]]).
* **Temporal Proximity:** A time or event drawing near (e.g., [[Isaiah 13:6]]).
* **Relational Proximity:** Individuals drawing near to God in worship or service (e.g., [[Exodus 3:5]], [[Leviticus 10:3]]). This often involves a sense of reverence and preparation due to God's holiness.
* **Judicial Proximity:** Drawing near to present a case or for judgment (e.g., [[Deuteronomy 25:9]]).
The non-occurrence of `{{H7132}}` suggests that other nominal forms or the verbal root itself were sufficient to convey the nuances of "approach" or "nearness" in the biblical narrative.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary and most significant related word to `{{H7132}}` (qᵉrâbâh) is its verbal root `{{H7126}}` (qārab), "to draw near." Several other derivatives from this root are prominent in the Hebrew Bible:
* `{{H7127}}` (qārēb): An adjective meaning "near" or "at hand" (e.g., [[Deuteronomy 4:7]]).
* `{{H7128}}` (qorbān): A noun meaning "offering" or "sacrifice." This is a crucial term, as a qorbān is something "brought near" to God, symbolizing the worshiper's approach and dedication (e.g., [[Leviticus 1:2]]).
* `{{H7129}}` (qerubbāh): A feminine noun, similar in form and meaning to `{{H7132}}`, also signifying "nearness" or "kinship," though it also has limited occurrences.
* `{{H7130}}` (qārôb): A very common adjective meaning "near," "close," or "imminent" (e.g., [[Psalm 34:18]]).
The conceptual field surrounding `{{H7132}}` thus includes notions of access, communion, proximity, and the means by which one might bridge distance—whether physical, spiritual, or relational.
### Theological Significance
Although `{{H7132}}` itself does not appear, the theological significance of its root `{{H7126}}` (qārab) and its derivatives is profound. The concept of "drawing near" is central to the biblical narrative of humanity's relationship with God.
1. **Divine Invitation and Human Response:** God often invites His people to draw near to Him, signifying His desire for relationship and communion (e.g., [[Exodus 19:17]]). This "drawing near" is not merely physical but involves a posture of the heart, obedience, and faith.
2. **Holiness and Access:** The act of drawing near to a holy God requires preparation and proper means. The sacrificial system, particularly the `{{H7128}}` (qorbān), provided a divinely ordained way for sinful humanity to approach a holy God, emphasizing atonement and reconciliation (e.g., [[Leviticus 17:11]]). Priests were specifically designated to "draw near" to God on behalf of the people (e.g., [[Numbers 16:9]]).
3. **God's Immanence:** Conversely, the Bible frequently speaks of God Himself drawing near to His people (e.g., [[Deuteronomy 4:7]], [[Psalm 145:18]]). This signifies His presence, His attentiveness, and His readiness to hear and respond. This divine initiative underpins all human attempts to approach Him.
4. **Covenant and Relationship:** The concept of nearness is intrinsically linked to the covenant relationship between God and Israel. To be "near" to God is to be in covenant with Him, enjoying His blessings and protection. The ultimate theological fulfillment of "drawing near" is found in the person of Jesus Christ, who, through His sacrifice, provides the perfect and final means for humanity to draw near to God (cf. [[Hebrews 10:19-22]]).
### Summary
`{{H7132}}` (qᵉrâbâh) is a Hebrew noun derived from the root `{{H7126}}` (qārab), meaning "to draw near" or "to approach." While this specific noun form is not attested in the Hebrew Bible, its meaning is entirely consistent with the rich semantic field of its active and widely used root. The concept of "drawing near" is a cornerstone of biblical theology, encompassing physical, temporal, and, most significantly, spiritual proximity. It speaks to humanity's desire and divinely provided means to approach a holy God, as well as God's own gracious initiative in drawing near to His creation. The absence of `{{H7132}}` does not diminish the profound importance of "drawing near" as a central theme in the divine-human relationship, beautifully expressed through other forms of the `{{H7126}}` root, particularly in the sacrificial system (`{{H7128}}` qorbān) and the call to worship and fellowship.
TRV