מַכְבִּיר
plenty
Definition
The Hebrew noun מַכְבִּיר (makbîyr) denotes an abundance or plentiful supply, specifically of food or sustenance. It is derived from a verb meaning 'to heap up' or 'to be much,' emphasizing a generous, overflowing quantity. In its sole biblical occurrence in Job 36:31, it describes God's provision of food for humanity through His control of the rain and harvest cycles. The word carries a sense of bountiful, even excessive, provision that meets and exceeds needs.
Biblical Usage
This word is used only once in the Old Testament, in Job 36:31. In this context, Elihu is describing God's sovereign power and goodness in governing nature. He states that God uses the rain 'to give food in abundance (מַכְבִּיר) to the people.' The usage is poetic and theological, directly linking God's natural governance to His gracious, abundant provision for human sustenance.
Etymology
מַכְבִּיר is a Hiphil participle form of the root כָּבַר (kāvar, H3527), which means 'to be much, many, or great.' The Hiphil stem often carries a causative sense, so the participle can imply 'one who causes to be much' or 'one who multiplies.' The root is related to the idea of increasing, heaping up, or being numerous, which directly informs the noun's meaning of plentiful abundance.
Semantic Range
Though used only once, this word is theologically significant as it portrays God as the ultimate provider. In Job 36:31, abundance is not an abstract concept but a direct result of God's purposeful action in creation. It underscores the doctrine of divine providence—God actively sustains His creation and generously supplies human need. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches reading by highlighting that biblical 'abundance' is rooted in God's character and sovereign control over nature.
In an ancient agrarian society, an 'abundance' of food was directly tied to successful harvests, which depended on timely rain. This word would evoke a powerful image of security, blessing, and freedom from famine. The concept was tangible and vital, contrasting with modern, industrialized contexts where food supply chains can obscure direct dependence on natural cycles and divine provision.
רֹב (rov, H7230) — a more general term for multitude or greatness in number or quantity. שָׂבָע (śāvāʿ, H7647) — denotes satiety or fullness, often from eating. עֹשֶׁר (ʿōšer, H6239) — refers to wealth or riches, a broader category including material possessions.
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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