קְבוּרָה
sepulture; (concretely) a sepulchre
Definition
The Hebrew noun קְבוּרָה (qᵉbûwrâh) primarily refers to the act or place of burial. It most commonly means 'burial' or 'sepulture,' describing the event of interment, as when Jacob requests to be buried with his fathers (Genesis 47:30). It can also refer concretely to the 'burial place' or 'sepulchre' itself, such as the pillar marking Rachel's grave (Genesis 35:20). In some instances, the word emphasizes the state of being buried, as seen in the description of Moses's unknown grave (Deuteronomy 34:6).
Biblical Usage
This word appears 13 times in the Old Testament, primarily in historical narratives. It is used in contexts of royal burials (e.g., 2 Kings 9:28, 23:30), personal burial requests (Genesis 47:30), and the marking of graves (Genesis 35:20). A pattern emerges where it often signifies a formal, noted burial site, sometimes contrasted with dishonorable interment, as with the wicked kings of Judah (2 Kings 21:26). Its usage underscores the cultural importance of a proper, remembered burial.
Etymology
The word is a feminine noun derived from the root קָבַר (qāḇar, H6912), meaning 'to bury.' It is essentially the feminine passive participle of that verb, literally meaning 'a being buried' or 'that which is for burial.' This derivation directly links the noun to the action of interment, grounding its meaning in the concrete act of placing a body in the ground.
Semantic Range
The concept of קְבוּרָה is theologically significant as it touches on themes of mortality, covenant promises, and honor. A proper burial was often tied to God's promises regarding the land and inheritance, as seen with the patriarchs (Genesis 47:29-30). It also reflects the biblical view of the body's dignity even in death and the hope of resting with one's ancestors. Understanding this term enriches reading by highlighting the solemnity and covenantal weight given to burial in the biblical worldview, contrasting with mere disposal of a corpse.
In ancient Israelite culture, a proper burial was of paramount importance. To be denied burial was a severe curse and mark of disgrace (e.g., Jeremiah 22:19). A family tomb or burial place (קְבוּרָה) represented continuity, inheritance, and honor for the deceased and their lineage. This differs from some modern perspectives where burial is often a private, less communal affair. The burial site itself could be a marked monument, like Rachel's pillar, serving as a lasting memorial.
קֶבֶר (qeḇer, H6913) — The more common general term for 'grave' or 'tomb,' often used interchangeably but can emphasize the physical cavity. שְׁאוֹל (šᵉ’ôl, H7585) — Refers to the underworld or realm of the dead, a broader, more theological concept than a physical grave. קָבַר (qāḇar, H6912) — The root verb meaning 'to bury,' denoting the action rather than the place or event.
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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