גְּבוּרָה
power
Definition
גְּבוּרָה (gᵉbûwrâh) refers to strength, might, or power, particularly in the context of divine or royal authority. In the book of Daniel, where it exclusively appears, it describes God's supreme power in governing the universe and revealing mysteries. In Daniel 2:20, it is used in a doxology praising God for His wisdom and might in changing times and seasons. In Daniel 2:23, Daniel thanks God for granting him wisdom and might by revealing King Nebuchadnezzar's dream. The word emphasizes effective, authoritative power that accomplishes specific purposes, especially in the spiritual and governmental realms.
Biblical Usage
This word is used only in the Aramaic portions of the book of Daniel, specifically in two verses within chapter 2. It appears in contexts of praise and thanksgiving directed toward God. In Daniel 2:20, it is part of a blessing acknowledging God's sovereign power over history. In Daniel 2:23, it is linked with wisdom as a gift from God that enables Daniel to interpret the king's dream. The usage consistently associates divine power with revelation and governance.
Etymology
גְּבוּרָה is the Aramaic form corresponding to the Hebrew word גְּבוּרָה (H1369), both derived from the root גָּבַר (gāvar, H1396), meaning 'to be strong' or 'to prevail.' The root conveys the idea of strength, mastery, or superiority. In Aramaic, it retains the core meaning of might or power, often used in contexts of military or royal strength, but in Daniel, it is applied specifically to God's transcendent authority.
Semantic Range
This word is theologically significant as it highlights God's absolute power and sovereignty, especially in the context of a foreign empire. In Daniel, it underscores that true might belongs to God alone, who controls kingdoms and reveals hidden truths. Understanding this Aramaic term enriches Bible reading by emphasizing that God's power is not abstract but actively involved in human history, granting wisdom to His servants and directing the course of nations, as seen in Daniel's interactions with Babylonian rulers.
In the ancient Near East, power (גְּבוּרָה) was often associated with kings, warriors, and gods demonstrating strength through conquest or control. In Daniel's setting within the Babylonian court, the term would have resonated with ideas of imperial might. However, the biblical text subverts this by attributing ultimate power to the God of Israel, not to human rulers or pagan deities, challenging the cultural norms of the time.
חַיִל (ḥayil, H2428) — often denotes strength, wealth, or military power in a more general or human context. כֹּחַ (kōaḥ, H3581) — refers to physical strength, force, or capacity. עֹז (ʿōz, H5797) — conveys strength, might, or majesty, frequently used of God's powerful protection.
Word Details
How this works
Hebrew definitions are from Brown-Driver-Briggs (1906) and Strong's Exhaustive Concordance (1890), both public domain. BDB was groundbreaking for its era but reflects 19th-century assumptions about Semitic etymology. Modern scholarship (HALOT, DCH) has revised many entries. Use these definitions as a starting point for exploration, not as the final word on a term's meaning in context.
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