אֵבֶר

אֵבֶר

a pinion

Definition

The Hebrew noun אֵבֶר (ʼêber) refers to the long, primary flight feathers of a bird's wing, specifically the pinion. It denotes the strong, outer part of the wing used for powerful, sustained flight, as opposed to the entire wing. In Isaiah 40:31, it is used metaphorically for the strength and endurance granted by God, while in Ezekiel 17:3, it is part of a literal description of a great eagle. In Psalm 55:6, the word appears in a poetic expression of a desire for escape, though the exact nuance is debated.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only three times in the Old Testament, primarily in poetic and prophetic books. Its usage is split between literal and metaphorical contexts. In Ezekiel 17:3, it is used literally in a parable about a great eagle. In Isaiah 40:31, it is used metaphorically for the renewed strength God gives to those who wait on Him. In Psalm 55:6, the psalmist exclaims, 'Oh, that I had wings like a dove! I would fly away and be at rest,' where 'wings' translates אֵבֶר, emphasizing the strong pinions needed for such flight.

Etymology

אֵבֶר (ʼêber) is derived from the root verb אָבַר (ʼābar, H82), which means 'to fly' or 'to soar.' The noun form specifically denotes the instrument of that action—the strong, feathered part of the wing that enables flight. This connection highlights the word's inherent focus on the power and function of flight rather than just the anatomical structure.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant, especially in Isaiah 40:31, where it becomes a powerful metaphor for divine empowerment. The promise that those who hope in the Lord will 'mount up with wings like eagles' (using אֵבֶר) speaks to God's ability to renew human strength supernaturally, exchanging human frailty for divine endurance. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the image, moving beyond simple 'wings' to the concept of receiving God's own powerful strength for life's journey. In ancient Near Eastern culture, the eagle was a symbol of supreme power, speed, and dominion. The pinion (אֵבֶר) represented the source of that creature's majestic flight and ability to soar above the earth. This cultural understanding directly informs the metaphorical use in Isaiah 40:31, where God's people are likened to eagles, implying not just escape but victorious, empowered living under God's care. כָּנָף (kānāp, H3671) — A more general term for 'wing' or 'extremity,' often referring to the whole wing or a corner/edge; can be used for garments. גָּדוֹל (gādôl, H1419) — Not a direct synonym, but used in Ezekiel 17:3 to describe the 'great' eagle possessing the אֵבֶר, emphasizing the magnitude of the pinions.

Word Details