גֹּפֶר
a kind of tree or wood (as used for building), apparently the cypress
Definition
The Hebrew word גֹּפֶר (gôpher) refers to a specific type of tree or wood used in construction. Its sole biblical occurrence is in Genesis 6:14, where God instructs Noah to build the ark from 'gopher wood.' The precise botanical identification remains uncertain, though it is traditionally understood to be a resilient, resinous wood like cypress or cedar, suitable for a large, seaworthy vessel. This term is used exclusively for the material divinely appointed for the ark's construction.
Biblical Usage
This word is used only once in the entire Old Testament, in Genesis 6:14. It appears in the specific context of God's direct command to Noah regarding the materials for building the ark. There is no other usage pattern, as it is a hapax legomenon (a word occurring only once).
Etymology
The etymology of גֹּפֶר is uncertain. It likely derives from an unused Hebrew root, possibly meaning 'to house in' or 'to cover,' which would be fitting for its use as a building material. Some scholars suggest a connection to the Akkadian word 'giparu,' meaning reed or a type of wood, but the exact origin and development of its meaning are not definitively known.
Semantic Range
While the word itself is a material noun, its theological significance is tied entirely to the narrative of divine judgment and salvation in Genesis 6-9. The specification of 'gopher wood' underscores God's meticulous providence and instruction in the means of salvation. The choice of a durable wood highlights the ark as a God-ordained, secure refuge, prefiguring themes of salvation and covenant. Understanding this specific term enriches the reading by emphasizing the precise obedience required of Noah.
In the ancient Near Eastern context, the specific command to use 'gopher wood' would have communicated the need for a premium, sturdy construction material readily available to Noah. The uncertainty of its exact identity today may reflect a local or archaic term for a tree known for its seaworthiness, differing from modern botanical classifications. Its use signifies a practical choice for a massive, long-lasting vessel meant to survive a catastrophic flood.
עֵץ (ʿēts, H6086) — The generic Hebrew word for 'tree' or 'wood,' whereas גֹּפֶר specifies a particular kind. אֶרֶז (ʾerez, H730) — 'cedar,' another prized, durable construction wood often used in sacred buildings (e.g., 1 Kings 5:6), but not the wood specified for the ark.
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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