קֹבָה (qo.vah)
qo.vah
belly
H:N-FQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-F
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun qovah refers to the belly or stomach, appearing only once in the Bible at Numbers 5:28. In this specific context, it describes the physical organ affected by a ritual involving bitter water, intended to reveal hidden unfaithfulness.
Lexical sources distinguish between two primary uses of the word. It can denote the stomach of a sacrificial animal, specifically the fourth chamber of a ruminant’s digestive system, which was assigned to the priest as part of the offering. Alternatively, it refers more generally to the belly of a woman.
This rare term grounds abstract spiritual concepts in physical reality. By using a concrete anatomical reference, the text emphasizes the tangible consequences of covenant violation. The word serves as a stark reminder that actions have real, bodily effects, linking moral integrity directly to physical well-being.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word qovah appears just once in Scripture, found in Numbers 5:28 during the ritual of the bitter water. This passage addresses a situation where trust has broken down between spouses. The text uses the physical reality of the belly to illustrate how hidden actions can have real consequences. It reminds us that our inner lives and outward behaviors are connected.
For your faith, this word highlights the importance of integrity. When we live honestly, we do not need to fear hidden judgments. God sees what is done in secret, but He also offers a path to clarity and truth. This rare term grounds abstract spiritual concepts in physical reality, showing that moral choices affect our whole being.
While this specific ritual is part of ancient Israelite law, the underlying principle remains relevant. It encourages us to value transparency and purity in our relationships. Knowing that God knows all things can bring peace rather than fear, as it invites us to live openly before Him.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- belly/ her1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- קֳבָתָ֑/הּ1×