תַּרְבּוּת

multiplication, i.e. progeny

Definition

The Hebrew noun תַּרְבּוּת (tarbûwth) fundamentally means 'increase' or 'multiplication,' specifically referring to the growth and expansion of a family line or community. It denotes the concept of progeny or offspring, emphasizing numerical growth and generational continuity. In its sole biblical occurrence in Numbers 32:14, it is used metaphorically to describe a 'brood' or 'multitude' of sinful people, highlighting not just physical increase but a collective character. The word carries the sense of something that has been made numerous or abundant.

Biblical Usage

This word appears only once in the Old Testament, in Numbers 32:14. It is used in a rebuke by Moses, who addresses the Israelites who are hesitant to enter the Promised Land. He warns them against becoming 'a brood (תַּרְבּוּת) of sinful men,' adding to God's anger. The context is one of accusation and warning, where the 'increase' is not a blessing but a multiplication of faithless individuals. Its usage is entirely in this negative, corporate sense within a narrative of rebellion.

Etymology

תַּרְבּוּת (tarbûwth) is a noun derived from the root רָבָה (râbâh, H7235), which means 'to be or become many, great, much, or numerous.' This root is common in Hebrew, giving rise to words related to increase, abundance, and greatness. The specific noun form תַּרְבּוּת indicates the state or result of that action—the 'multiplication' itself. Cognate words from the same root include רָב (râb, H7227) meaning 'many' or 'great,' and רִבּוֹ (ribbô, H7230) meaning 'ten thousand' or 'myriad.'

Semantic Range

Though used only once, תַּרְבּוּת carries theological weight in its context. It connects the theme of God's promised multiplication of Abraham's descendants (Genesis 15:5) with the peril of that blessing being corrupted into a multiplication of sin and rebellion. It serves as a sobering reminder that numerical growth or a large community is not inherently righteous; a 'brood' can collectively turn away from God. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the reading of Numbers 32:14 by highlighting the tragic irony: the people God multiplied are now multiplying sin.

In ancient Israelite culture, having many children and a large family was considered a supreme blessing and sign of God's favor (Psalm 127:3-5). The word תַּרְבּוּת, built on the concept of increase, would naturally evoke this positive ideal. However, its use in Numbers 32:14 subverts that expectation. It applies the language of blessing to a curse, showing that the cultural value of a numerous progeny could be utterly inverted by persistent disobedience and lack of faith, transforming a potential asset into a liability.

זֶרַע (zeraʿ, H2233) — 'seed' or 'offspring'; a more common, neutral term for physical descendants. פְּרִי (perî, H6529) — 'fruit'; often used metaphorically for children or results of one's life. רִבּוֹ (ribbô, H7230) — 'ten thousand' or 'myriad'; emphasizes a very large number, but not specifically progeny.

Word Details

Scripture References