סַבָּל (sab.bal)
sab.bal
burden
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun sabal refers to a burden-bearer or one who carries heavy loads. Its meaning is concrete and physical, describing the person who bears the weight rather than the weight itself. This usage highlights the role of labor and service in carrying what is imposed upon them.
According to the provided sources, this term appears only once in Scripture, specifically in II Chronicles 28:18. In this context, it describes those taken captive by the Philistines. The rarity of the word suggests it was a specific term for a carrier or porter, emphasizing the physical reality of servitude and the heavy loads borne by captives.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Hebrew word sabal describes a burden-bearer, someone physically tasked with carrying heavy loads. In II Chronicles 28:18, it depicts captives forced into servitude by the Philistines. This image reminds us that life often brings weights we did not choose to carry, whether through hardship or unexpected circumstances.
Yet Scripture also shows God using those who bear burdens for His purposes. In II Chronicles 34:13, Levites are appointed as overseers of these workers during the temple restoration. This suggests that even in roles of service or struggle, there is dignity and divine order. God sees those who carry heavy loads and uses them to build what is holy.
When you feel weighed down, remember that your labor is seen. You are not alone in carrying what feels too heavy. God’s presence accompanies those who serve, even when the load seems overwhelming.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- the/ burden-bearers1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- הַ/סַּבָּלִ֗ים1×
Key Verses
-
II Chronicles 34:13
Also they were over the bearers of burdens, and directed all who did the work in every kind of service. Of the Levites, there were scribes, officials, and gatekeepers.
Here, Levites oversee the bearers of burdens during temple restoration, showing how God appoints leaders to guide those in service roles.