שָׂגַב
to be (causatively, make) lofty, especially inaccessible; by implication, safe, strong; used literally and figuratively
Definition
The Hebrew verb שָׂגַב (sâgab) fundamentally means to be high, lofty, or inaccessible. In its literal sense, it describes physical elevation or fortification, such as a city set on a height (Deuteronomy 2:36). Figuratively, it conveys the ideas of safety, security, and strength, as something that is 'set on high' is out of reach of danger. When used of God, it describes His exalted, sovereign nature and His act of lifting up the lowly (Psalm 107:41). The causative form (Hiphil) means to make high, exalt, or set securely on high, as when God exalts the humble (Job 5:11) or sets the believer in a safe, stronghold (Psalm 59:1).
Biblical Usage
This verb appears 20 times, primarily in poetic and wisdom literature (Psalms, Job). It is used in two primary contexts: 1) Describing physical, inaccessibly high places for defense (Deuteronomy 2:36). 2) More commonly, describing God's protective exaltation of people. God is the primary subject who 'sets on high' those who know His name (Psalm 91:14) and delivers them (Psalm 20:1). It also describes God's own exalted, sovereign power (Job 36:22) and His act of lifting the needy from affliction (Psalm 107:41).
Etymology
A primitive root (a basic verbal form from which other words are derived). It is related to the idea of height and loftiness. Cognate words in other Semitic languages also carry meanings related to being high or exalted, confirming this core semantic field.
Semantic Range
This word is theologically significant as it beautifully intertwines the concepts of God's sovereignty and His salvation. God's exalted, inaccessible majesty (Job 36:22) is the very basis for His ability to be a secure 'high tower' of defense for His people (Psalm 59:1, 9). It illustrates that true safety and exaltation come not from human strength but from being lifted up by God (Psalm 20:1; 107:41). Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the reading of promises like Psalm 91:14, revealing that divine rescue is portrayed as being placed in an unassailable, lofty stronghold.
In the ancient Near East, security was often found in topographically high, fortified places like hilltop cities and citadels. The metaphor of being 'set on high' (sâgab) would immediately communicate complete safety from earthly enemies and dangers, making it a powerful image for divine protection.
רָם (rûm, H7311) — emphasizes height or exaltation, often in a more general sense. עָלָה (ʿālâ, H5927) — means to go up or ascend, focusing on the movement upward rather than the resulting state of secure height. גָּבַהּ (gābah, H1361) — denotes being high or lofty, often describing physical stature or pride, with less emphasis on the resulting safety.
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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