גְּבִיר (ge.vir)
ge.vir
lord
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun gevir denotes a person of high status, translated as "lord" or "ruler." It identifies someone who holds authority over others, emphasizing their position of power and command rather than just social rank.
This term appears only twice in the entire Bible, both times within Genesis. In these instances, it describes the relationship between Isaac and his sons, specifically referring to the elder son’s role as the head of the household. The usage highlights the weight of patriarchal authority and the respect owed to the family leader.
While similar words exist for master or king, gevir focuses on the immediate sphere of control within a domestic or tribal context. Its rare occurrence makes each appearance significant, anchoring the narrative in the specific dynamics of inheritance and leadership in the early generations of Israel.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word gevir carries the weight of responsibility, not just privilege. In Genesis, it marks the elder son’s role as head of the household, a position that demanded care for his family rather than mere control. This reminds us that authority in God’s design is rooted in service and stewardship.
When we see this title used for Isaac’s sons, it highlights how leadership was tied to provision and protection. The one who leads is expected to sustain those under their care, offering grain and wine when needed. It is a call to look outward, ensuring others are provided for.
This ancient term invites us to reflect on our own roles within our families and communities. Whether in small groups or larger organizations, true leadership mirrors this biblical pattern of nurturing strength. May we find grace in serving those entrusted to us, knowing that God honors faithful stewardship.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- lord2×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- גְּבִ֞יר1×
- גְבִיר֙1×
Key Verses
-
Genesis 27:29
Let peoples serve you, and nations bow down to you. Be lord over your brothers. Let your mother’s sons bow down to you. Cursed be everyone who curses you. Blessed be everyone who blesses you.”
This verse establishes the elder son’s authority over his brothers, framing leadership as a divine blessing rather than human ambition.
-
Genesis 27:37
Isaac answered Esau, “Behold, I have made him your lord, and all his brothers I have given to him for servants. I have sustained him with grain and new wine. What then will I do for you, my son?”
Isaac clarifies that making Jacob lord includes providing for him with grain and wine, showing that authority entails material responsibility.