גָּדֵל (ga.del)
ga.del
growing
H:AQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:A
Word Overview
The Hebrew participle gadel describes the process of becoming great or growing up. It captures a state of increasing in size, stature, or influence rather than a static condition. In Scripture, this term often marks significant transitions in a person’s life as they mature into their role.
This word appears in key narratives where physical growth parallels spiritual or social development. For instance, it is used to describe the young Samuel growing in favor with both God and people (1 Samuel 2:21), and later in his own maturation (1 Samuel 3:1). It also notes the growth of John the Baptist’s child in the womb (Luke 1:80 in Greek, but reflecting the same concept) or the general increase of Israel. The term emphasizes a dynamic progression.
Gadel is derived from the root gadal, meaning to be large or great. Its use as a participle highlights ongoing action. Translators often render it as "growing" or "becoming great," depending on context. This word reminds readers that greatness in biblical terms is often a process of development and divine favor, not just an innate status.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word gadel describes a natural, ongoing process of becoming greater. It is not about sudden status changes but steady development over time. When we see this term used for figures like Isaac or Samuel, it highlights that growth is often quiet and consistent. This offers comfort to those feeling stuck; progress may be slow, but it is real and noticed by God.
In 1 Samuel 2:26, the text notes that young Samuel grew in favor with both Yahweh and people. This shows that true greatness involves both spiritual depth and healthy relationships. It suggests that as we mature in faith, our character develops alongside our standing with others. This holistic view of growth reminds us that God is interested in our entire journey.
Whether you are navigating a season of professional increase like Jehoshaphat or personal maturation like Samuel, this word encourages patience. Greatness is rarely instantaneous; it is built through faithful steps. Trusting in this gradual process allows you to focus on daily faithfulness rather than immediate results.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ becoming great1×
- and/ [was] growing up1×
- and/ [was] becoming great1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וְ/גָדֵ֖ל2×
- וְ/גָדֵ֔ל1×
Key Verses
-
I Samuel 2:26
The child Samuel grew on, and increased in favor both with Yahweh and also with men.
This verse uniquely links physical growth with gaining favor from both God and people, showing that spiritual maturity impacts social standing.
-
Genesis 26:13
The man grew great, and grew more and more until he became very great.
The repetition of 'grew' emphasizes a continuous, cumulative increase in prosperity rather than a single event.
-
II Chronicles 17:12
Jehoshaphat grew great exceedingly; and he built fortresses and store cities in Judah.
This occurrence highlights how significant growth can lead to tangible actions like building infrastructure for the community.