גֶּבֶא

גֶּבֶא

a reservoir; by analogy, a marsh

Definition

The Hebrew noun גֶּבֶא (gebeʼ) refers to a man-made reservoir or cistern for collecting and holding water. By extension, it can also describe a natural, stagnant water source like a marsh or bog. In Isaiah 30:14, it is used metaphorically for a broken cistern or reservoir that cannot hold water, symbolizing something utterly useless. In Ezekiel 47:11, the word describes the 'miry places' or marshes that will be left undrinkable and given over to salt, in contrast to the life-giving river flowing from the temple.

Biblical Usage

This word occurs only twice in the Old Testament, both in prophetic books. In Isaiah 30:14, it is part of a judgment oracle, used figuratively for a shattered reservoir. In Ezekiel 47:11, it is used literally in a vision of restoration, describing the brackish marshes that will remain outside the transformation brought by the temple's river. Both uses involve a contrast between life-giving water and useless, stagnant water.

Etymology

Derived from an unused Hebrew root likely meaning 'to collect' or 'to gather.' This root sense points to its primary meaning as a place where water is collected and held, whether a constructed cistern or a natural depression forming a marsh.

Semantic Range

Though a simple noun, its two uses carry significant theological imagery. In Isaiah 30:14, the shattered 'gebeʼ' powerfully illustrates the complete failure of human plans and alliances that reject God's protection. In Ezekiel 47:11, the preserved marshes serve as a contrasting reminder that not everything will be healed in the new order, highlighting God's sovereign judgment even amidst profound renewal. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the contrast between divine provision and human inadequacy. In the arid climate of ancient Israel, reliable water sources were critical for survival. A 'gebeʼ' as a reservoir represented security and planning. A broken one was a catastrophe, and a stagnant marsh was seen as useless or even unhealthy, unable to support life or agriculture. This cultural reality gives weight to the biblical metaphors. בּוֹר (bor, H953) — a general term for pit, cistern, or dungeon, often dry. בְּאֵר (be'er, H875) — a well or spring, a source of living water. אֲגַם (ʼagam, H98) — a pool or pond, often natural.

Word Details