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H1576 · Hebrew · Old Testament
גְּמוּל
Gemul
Noun, masculine
Recompense / Dealing / Benefit

Definition

The Hebrew noun gemul refers to a recompense, reward, or the result of one's deeds — the natural consequence of how a person has acted toward others. It can be used in both a positive sense (benefit, reward) and a negative sense (retribution, punishment for evil).

Usage & Theological Significance

Gemul captures the biblical principle of sowing and reaping. God is portrayed as the one who renders gemul according to deeds. In the Psalms, the righteous trust that YHWH will repay the wicked and reward the faithful — not as vengeance but as the proper order of justice.

Theologically, gemul teaches that human actions carry weight before God. The New Testament echoes this in Galatians 6:7 — 'A man reaps what he sows' — and in God's ultimate judgment.

Key Bible Verses

Psalm 103:2 Praise the LORD, my soul, and forget not all his benefits
Isaiah 35:4 say to those with fearful hearts, 'Be strong, do not fear; your God will come, he will come with divine vengeance; with divine retribution he will come to save you.'
Joel 3:4 Are you repaying me for something I have done? If you are paying me back, I will swiftly and speedily return on your own heads what you have done.
Psalm 28:4 Repay them for their deeds and for their evil work; repay them for what their hands have done and bring back on them what they deserve.
Obadiah 1:15 The day of the LORD is near for all nations. As you have done, it will be done to you; your deeds will return upon your own head.

Related Words

External Resources

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