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H1362 · Hebrew · Old Testament
גָּבָהּ
Gabah (adj)
Adjective
High / Lofty / Proud

Definition

Gabah as adjective describes what is high, tall, or elevated. It is used for the height of men (Saul was 'a head taller' — 1 Samuel 10:23), the height of trees (Ezekiel 31:3), and figuratively for arrogance and pride. It also describes the exalted nature of God's position.

Usage & Theological Significance

The adjective gabah helps distinguish appropriate elevation (God is high and lifted up) from inappropriate elevation (the proud human heart). Isaiah's vision of the Lord 'high and exalted' (Isaiah 6:1) uses a synonym but captures the same theology — God's height produces awe, worship, and the prophet's confession of unworthiness. Tall trees (Ezekiel 31) become symbols of arrogant empires that God cuts down. Only the humble are truly elevated because they share in God's exaltation rather than competing with it.

Key Bible Verses

1 Samuel 10:23 They ran and brought him out, and as he stood among the people he was a head taller than any of the others.
Isaiah 57:15 For this is what the high and exalted One says — he who lives forever, whose name is holy: 'I live in a high and holy place, but also with the one who is contrite and lowly in spirit.'
Ezekiel 31:3 Consider Assyria, once a cedar in Lebanon, with beautiful branches overshadowing the forest; it towered on high, its top above the thick foliage.
Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.
Job 41:34 It looks down on all that are haughty; it is king over all that are proud.

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External Resources

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