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H1375 · Hebrew · Old Testament
גְּבִיעַ
Geviya
Noun, masculine
Cup, goblet, bowl

Definition

The noun geviya describes a cup or bowl-shaped vessel used for drinking wine or for cultic purposes. Its most famous occurrences are Joseph's silver divination cup (Genesis 44) and the ornate almond-blossom cup shapes carved into the lampstand of the Tabernacle (Exodus 25:31–34).

Usage & Theological Significance

The cup (geviya) became a rich symbol in biblical theology. Joseph's silver cup (Genesis 44:2–5, 12–17) functions as a test of his brothers' character and catalyzes their confession. The lampstand's cup-shaped blossoms (Exodus 25:31–34) point toward the beauty and order of worship before God. More broadly, the cup as a vessel for wine evokes the Lord's cup of wrath poured out on the nations (cf. Jeremiah 25:15) and the cup of salvation lifted in thanksgiving (Psalm 116:13), themes that converge in the Last Supper and the cup Jesus drinks for his people.

Key Bible Verses

Genesis 44:2 And put my cup, the silver cup, in the mouth of the sack of the youngest, with his money for the grain. And he did as Joseph told him.
Exodus 25:31 You shall make a lampstand of pure gold... its cups, its calyxes, and its flowers shall be of one piece with it.
Genesis 44:12 He searched, beginning with the eldest and ending with the youngest. And the cup was found in Benjamin's sack.
Exodus 37:19 Three cups made like almond blossoms, each with calyx and flower, were on one branch, and three cups made like almond blossoms, each with calyx and flower, were on the other branch.
Jeremiah 35:5 Then I set before the Rechabites pitchers full of wine, and cups, and I said to them, 'Drink wine.'

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