גֵּא (ge)
ge
proud
H:AQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:A
Word Overview
The Hebrew adjective ge describes a state of pride, appearing only once in the Old Testament within Isaiah 16:6. In this specific context, it characterizes the attitude of Moab, linking arrogance directly to the nation’s impending judgment. The term captures an inflated sense of self-importance that stands in opposition to humility before God.
Its singular occurrence highlights how severe Scripture views such hubris when it leads a people away from dependence on divine mercy. Translators typically render this word as "proud," reflecting a heart that is lifted up and resistant to correction. The brevity of its usage underscores the weight of the accusation against Moab’s leadership.
Understanding ge requires seeing pride not merely as confidence, but as a spiritual obstruction. Isaiah uses this rare term to pinpoint the root of Moab’s downfall, showing that arrogance blinds nations to their need for grace. This single instance serves as a stark warning about the dangers of exalting oneself above God.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Hebrew word ge appears just once in the Old Testament, found in Isaiah 16:6. It describes the deep-seated pride of Moab, a nation that trusted in its own strength rather than seeking God’s mercy. This rare term highlights how arrogance blinds people to their true needs, creating a barrier between them and divine grace.
For your faith life, this single occurrence serves as a gentle reminder to examine our own hearts. When we feel self-sufficient or dismissive of others, we mirror the attitude Isaiah condemns. Recognizing this tendency allows us to turn toward humility, acknowledging that our security rests in God alone, not in our own achievements.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- proud1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- גֵּ֣א1×
Key Verses
-
Isaiah 16:6
We have heard of the pride of Moab, that he is very proud; even of his arrogance, his pride, and his wrath. His boastings are nothing.
This verse uses ge to directly link Moab’s arrogance with the futility of its boastings, showing how pride leads to spiritual emptiness.