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H46 · Hebrew · Old Testament
אָבִיר
ʾāḇîr
Adjective / Noun, masculine
Mighty, strong; the Mighty One

Definition

Strong, mighty; used as a divine title (the Mighty One of Jacob/Israel)',

Full Definition

ʾĀḇîr derives from the root ʾbr (to be strong, to fly). As an adjective it describes mighty men (Judges 5:22 — mighty horses), arrogant kings (Isaiah 46:12), or powerful creatures. As a divine title, ʾāḇîr appears in the phrase ʾăḇîr Yaʿăqōḇ (Mighty One of Jacob) or ʾăḇîr Yiśrāʾēl (Mighty One of Israel) — a name for God that emphasizes His invincible power and His particular relationship with the patriarchs. This title appears in Gen 49:24, Psalm 132:2,5, Isaiah 1:24, 49:26, 60:16.

Usage & Theological Significance

The title 'Mighty One of Jacob' connects God's omnipotence to His covenant commitment. He is not merely powerful in the abstract; He is the specific Protector and Deliverer of Israel. Genesis 49:24 links the shepherd imagery with divine might — the Good Shepherd is also the Mighty Warrior. This is fulfilled in Christ, who is described as the 'Lion of the tribe of Judah' (Revelation 5:5), mighty to save (Isaiah 63:1). The same divine power that delivered Israel from Egypt is the power that raises the dead (Romans 8:11).

Key Bible Verses

Genesis 49:24
But his bow remained steady, his strong arms stayed limber, because of the hand of the Mighty One of Jacob, because of the Shepherd, the Rock of Israel.
Psalm 132:2
He swore an oath to the LORD, he made a vow to the Mighty One of Jacob.
Isaiah 1:24
Therefore the Lord, the LORD Almighty, the Mighty One of Israel, declares: 'Ah! I will vent my wrath on my foes.'
Isaiah 49:26
...and all mankind will know that I, the LORD, am your Savior, your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob.
Isaiah 60:16
...you will know that I, the LORD, am your Savior, your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob.

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