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Proverbs 23:11 — Word Study

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WLCכִּֽי־ גֹאֲלָ֥ם חָזָ֑ק הֽוּא־ יָרִ֖יב אֶת־ רִיבָ֣ם אִתָּֽךְ׃

BSAforkîy their Redeemergâʼal [mighty Protector, strong Defender] is strongchâzâq [powerful, severe] Hehûwʼ will take uprîyb [plead, contend for] their caserîyb [cause, strife] against youʼêth [with thee, in court]

Word
Listen & take awayProverbs 23
English ↓ Download MP3 The Berean Standard Bible chapter audio already hosted for the site's Bible section — verse 11 is in this chapter.
Hebrew ↓ Download MP3 The Masoretic text of this chapter, read aloud. Read by Abraham Shmuelof, courtesy of Audio Scriptures International. Chapter divisions by the Academy of Ancient Languages..
Say the word Each Hebrew word carries its transliteration ('i.Takh) — no per-word recordings of the Hebrew exist to link to.
Take it away
Proverbs 23:11quick helps
In a sentenceThe verse asserts that the Redeemer is powerful and will advocate for the oppressed.
Who is speakingThe wise teacher of Proverbs, addressing the reader.
Where we areIn a section about justice and the protection of the vulnerable.
The hard wordגֹאֲלָ֥ם
Take awayThe assurance that God defends the cause of the oppressed.
8 commentators on this verse Gill, Jamieson, Poole, Trapp & more — read them › clause subjectהוּא verbרִיב The sentence as the grammar sees it Open the tree ›
How rare are these words?in the Old Testament

Every word here is used elsewhere in the Old Testament.

Bars are logarithmic — אֵת, the commonest word in the Hebrew Bible, stands about 11,000 times, so a linear scale would leave everything else invisible. Click a row to open that word.

Deep Study — Proverbs 23:11

Sections marked generated are written from the data on this page rather than by a named author. Everything else — the lexicon entries, the cross references, the manuscript readings, the counts — is quoted from its source unchanged.

Context — Justice and Protectiongenerated

10Do not move an ancient boundary stone or encroach on the fields of the fatherless,
11for their Redeemer is strong; He will take up their case against you.
12Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge.
13Do not withhold discipline from a child; although you strike him with a rod, he will not die.

Proverbs 23:11 emphasizes the strength of the Redeemer who advocates for the vulnerable, particularly the fatherless. This verse follows a warning against injustice, reminding the reader of God's role as a protector. The surrounding verses encourage ethical behavior and highlight the importance of justice in society, as seen in Proverbs 23:10 and Proverbs 23:12.


Cross References

ReferenceText (BSB)
1Proverbs 22:23for the LORD will take up their case and will plunder those who rob them.
2Exodus 22:22–24You must not mistreat any widow or orphan.
3Deuteronomy 27:19‘Cursed is he who withholds justice from the foreigner, the fatherless, or the widow.’ And let all the people say, ‘Amen!’
4Psalm 12:5“For the cause of the oppressed and for the groaning of the needy, I will now arise,” says the LORD. “I will bring safety to him who yearns.”
5Jeremiah 50:33–34This is what the LORD of Hosts says: “The sons of Israel are oppressed, and the sons of Judah as well. All their captors hold them fast, refusing to release them.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge — 6 references, hung on the phrase they belong to

For their redeemer is mighty; he shall plead their cause with thee.Proverbs 22:23 Exodus 22:22–24 Deuteronomy 27:19 Psalm 12:5 Jeremiah 50:33–34 Jeremiah 51:36

The Key Word גֹאֲלָ֥ם, go.'a.Lamgenerated

The word גּוֹאֵל (go'el) means 'redeemer' and is derived from the root that signifies the act of redeeming, particularly in familial contexts. It often involves a kinsman who has the responsibility to protect and restore the rights of family members.

In this verse, it emphasizes God’s role as a protector and advocate for those who are oppressed, assuring that He is strong and will take action on their behalf.


How Translations Differ — measured against the Berean Standard Biblegenerated

The translations generally agree on the meaning of the verse.


Sentence Structuregenerated

The main verb of the verse is יָרִ֖יב, he will conduct, which governs the entire structure. The subject is הוּא, he, referring to the Redeemer, and the object is רִיבָ֣ם, their case.

The Hebrew structure places emphasis on the Redeemer's strength, indicated by the adjective חָזָ֑ק, strong, which follows the subject, highlighting the nature of the Redeemer's action.


Septuagint Backgroundgenerated

The Septuagint translates גֹאֲלָ֥ם as αὐτοὺς, indicating a more general reference to 'them' rather than specifying 'their Redeemer'. This choice may broaden the focus from a specific redeemer to the collective group needing protection.

The term κραταιός is used for 'strong', which aligns with the Hebrew meaning but may carry a slightly different nuance in the Greek context.


In plain words — the whole versegenerated

Proverbs 23:11 tells us that God, referred to as the Redeemer, is strong and will advocate for those who are vulnerable. This verse emphasizes the importance of justice and the protection of the fatherless, reminding us that God defends the cause of the oppressed.


Frequently Asked Questionsgenerated

What does it mean that God is their Redeemer?

It means that God takes on the role of a protector and advocate for those who are vulnerable, ensuring their rights are defended.

How does this verse relate to justice?

This verse emphasizes that God actively works to uphold justice for the oppressed, reminding readers of their responsibility to do the same.

What is the significance of the Redeemer being strong?

The strength of the Redeemer assures the oppressed that they have a powerful advocate who will fight for their cause.

How can we apply this verse today?

We can apply this verse by advocating for justice and supporting those who are vulnerable in our communities, reflecting God's protective nature.


Reflection Questionsgenerated

  1. In what ways can I be an advocate for those who are vulnerable in my community?
  2. How does understanding God as my Redeemer change my perspective on justice?
  3. What actions can I take to ensure that I am standing up for the oppressed?
  4. How can I rely on God's strength in my own struggles?

The early church on this verse — how the Fathers read it

The early Church Fathers referenced this verse to discuss God's advocacy for the oppressed, as seen in the writings of Commodian.

CommodianOn Christian Discipline, LXXII 3rd–5th c.
Receive into thy ears the teaching of the great Solomon: God hates the poor man to be a pleader on high. [Prov. 23:11] Therefore submit thyself, and give honour to Him that is powerful; for the soft speech-thou knowest the proverb-melts.
Early Church Fathers on Proverbs 23 →

Commentators on this verse — 8 expositors, verse by verse

Each of these wrote on Proverbs 23:11 itself, not merely on the chapter around it.

John Gill1697–1771Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

For their Redeemer [is] mighty,.... As he must needs be, since the Lord of hosts is his name; who sympathizes with them, has mercy on them, is their father, and their friend; see Jeremiah 50:34; he

Read John Gill on Proverbs 23 →
Robert Jamieson1802–1880Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown's Commentary

Remove not the old landmark; and enter not into the fields of the fatherless: Enter not into the fields of the fatherless (in order to appropriate their property, as thinking they have none to defend

Read Robert Jamieson on Proverbs 23 →
Matthew Poole1624–1679Matthew Poole's Commentary on the Holy Bible

Their redeemer, Heb. their near kinsman, to whom it belongs to avenge their wrongs, and to recover and maintain their rights, of which see . Thus God is pleased to call himself, to show how much he concerns himself for the relief of oppressed and helpless persons.

Read Matthew Poole on Proverbs 23 →
John Trapp1601–1669Trapp's Complete Commentary on the Old and New Testaments

Proverbs 23:11 For their redeemer [is] mighty; he shall plead their cause with thee.Ver. 11. For their Redeemer is mighty.] "The thunder of his power who can understand?" And "who knoweth the power of his wrath?" Oh, "contend not with him that is mightier than thou." God Almighty is. in a special manner the guardian of his orphans, and the great Master of the wards.

Read John Trapp on Proverbs 23 →
Charles John Ellicott1819–1905Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers

(11) Their redeemer is mighty.—They may have no near kinsman (Leviticus 25:25) to redeem their land, yet they have a mighty Deliverer (Exodus 6:6), who will redress their wrongs.

Read Charles John Ellicott on Proverbs 23 →
AdamClarkeAdam Clarke's Commentary on the Bible

Verse 11. For their redeemer is mighty] גאלם goalam, their kinsman. The word means the person who has a right, being next in blood, to redeem a field or estate, alienated from the family, to avenge the blood of a murdered relative, by slaying the murderer; and to take to wife a brother's widow, who had died childless, in order to preserve the family. The strength here mentioned refers to the justness of his claim, the extent of his influence, and the powerful abettors of such a cause. But in reference to the orphans here mentioned, they having no kinsman, God takes up, vindicates, and avenges their cause.

Read AdamClarke on Proverbs 23 →
CambridgeThe Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges

11. their Redeemer] viz. God, who is “a Father of the fatherless,” Psalms 68:5. The Heb. word is Goel, and there is probably an allusion to the Goel among men, the nearest blood relation, whose duty it was not only to avenge the blood of his kinsman if he had been unjustly slain (Numbers 35:19), but generally to befriend him and espouse his cause (Leviticus 25:25; Rth 3:9; Rth 3:12-13; Rth 4:1; Rth 4:4). He] the word is emphatic; q.d. with Him and not with them thou wilt have to reckon.

Read Cambridge on Proverbs 23 →
Albert Barnes1798–1870Barnes' Notes on the Bible

The reason is given for the precept Proverbs 23:10. Their redeemer - See Job 19:25 note. It was the duty of the גאל gā'al, the next of kin, to take on himself, in case of murder, the office of avenger of blood Numbers 35:19.

Read Albert Barnes on Proverbs 23 →

The verse in English, compared — 17 translations, and where they part company

Every translation on this page is a decision someone had to make and commit to. Read down a column and you see one translator's judgement; read across a row and you see the range the Greek actually allows. The BSB is the wording the rest of this page is measured against, so it is listed first.

Modern formal

BSBBerean Standard Bible2020

for their Redeemer is strong; He will take up their case against you.

WEBWorld English Bible2000

for their Defender is strong. He will plead their case against you.

MSBMajority Standard Bible2022

for their Redeemer is strong; He will take up their case against you.

NETBNew English Translation2006

for their Protector is strong; he will plead their case against you.

Tyndale line

KJVKing James Version1611

For their redeemer is mighty; he shall plead their cause with thee.

ASVAmerican Standard Version1901

For their Redeemer is strong; He will plead their cause against thee.

RVARevised Version, American1894

For their redeemer is strong; he shall plead their cause against thee.

NWBWebster's Bible1833

For their redeemer is mighty; he will plead their cause with thee.

GNVGeneva Bible1599

For he that redeemeth them, is mightie: he will defend their cause against thee.

Strictly literal

DBYDarby Translation1890

for their redeemer is mighty; he will plead their cause against thee.

YLTYoung's Literal Translation1862

For their Redeemer [is] strong, He doth plead their cause with thee.

LSVLiteral Standard Version2020

For their Redeemer [is] strong, || He pleads their cause with you.

ILTInterlinear Literal Translation2000

For their redeemer is strong; he will indeed plead their cause with thee.

ULBUnlocked Literal Bible2017

for their Redeemer is strong and he will plead their case against you.

From the Latin

DRADouay-Rheims (Challoner)1899

For their near kinsman is strong: and he will judge their cause against thee.

Simplified

FBVFree Bible Version2020

for their Protector is powerful and he will plead their case against you.

BBEBible in Basic English1949

For their saviour is strong, and he will take up their cause against you.

Counted from the translations carried on this site, not from a survey of every English Bible. A rendering shared by many versions is usually inherited rather than independently arrived at — the Tyndale line in particular runs through most of them.


The sentence as the grammar sees it — from the MACULA Hebrew treebank

This is not our own analysis: it is the scholarly syntax tree for the verse, showing how the clause actually holds together.

כִּֽי(dm)clausenoun phrase · subjectגֹאֲלָ֥redeemerםtheirpredicateחָזָ֑ק[is].strongclausesubjectהֽוּאheverbיָרִ֖יבhe.will.conductnoun phrase · objectאֶת(et)noun phraseרִיבָ֣caseםtheirprepositional phrase · prepositionalאִתָּֽwithךְyou

Boxes are the grammarian's groupings — clause, noun phrase, prepositional phrase.


The four witnesses to this verse — Masoretic, Septuagint, Samaritan, Qumran

The Masoretic Text and the Septuagint show agreement in the overall meaning of the verse, although the Septuagint's wording differs in structure. The words correspond closely, with some variations in the articles and order.

Masoretic TextLeningrad Codex, c. AD 1008 — the text this page is built on

כִּֽי־ גֹאֲלָ֥ם חָזָ֑ק הֽוּא־ יָרִ֖יב אֶת־ רִיבָ֣ם אִתָּֽךְ׃

Septuagintthe Greek the translators chose, word by word
כִּֽי־γὰρגֹאֲלָ֥םαὐτοὺςחָזָ֑קκραταιόςהֽוּא־ἐστινאִתָּֽךְ׃σοῦ

5 of the 8 words are matched. This is the word-by-word correspondence, not the Septuagint's own sentence — its word order and its articles are its own.

Four traditions, not one. “On the leather” means the letters physically survive on the scroll, as against letters an editor has supplied to fill a hole in it — a restoration is a scholar’s reading, not a reading of the manuscript. Words in [square brackets] are supplied; the notes count them apart from what survives.


The map of this verse — what each word keeps company with

This is a map of two things, both counted rather than judged. Company kept: which words stand within three words of each of these, anywhere in the Hebrew Bible — the thicker the line, the more often the pair meet compared with chance. Built from: the words a word is made out of, taken from its own Strong’s entry. It is not a map of meaning: nothing here claims two words mean the same thing. Click any circle to see the numbers behind it.

Proverbs 23:11כִּיforforכִּיגָּאַלredeemer thredeemer theirגָּאַלחָזָק[is] strong[is] strongחָזָקהוּאheheהוּארִיבhe will conhe will conductרִיבאֵתthe object the object markאֵתרִיבcase theircase theirרִיבאֵתwith youwith youאֵתרִיבto contendto contendרִיבחָזַקto strengtto strengthen: חָזַקאוֹתsign: mirasign: miraculouאוֹתאָנָהto meetto meetאָנָהיָדַעto knowto knowיָדַערָצַחto murderto murderרָצַחמוֹרָאfearfearמוֹרָאמֵ֫צַחforeheadforeheadמֵ֫צַחטָמֵאuncleanuncleanטָמֵאעֵתtimetimeעֵתרִיבstrifestrifeרִיבמִגְרָשׁpasturepastureמִגְרָשׁמָדוֹןstrifestrifeמָדוֹןבְּרִיתcovenantcovenantבְּרִית
meets it a little oftener than chancemeets it far oftener than chancebuilt from the same roottwo words of the verse share ita word of this versea related word

Lexicons — every word in Proverbs 23:11

One dossier per word, with every reference work grouped by kind — Hebrew lexicons, morphology, Bible dictionaries, topical chains and the English of the translators themselves. The verse sits at the head of each block with the word under study lit, so you never lose your place. The panel above gives the short answer; this is the long one, and it is the part of the page worth indexing.

Every entry below is the lexicographer's own text. On the Hebrew: Brown-Driver-Briggs entire and its gloss set, Strong's Hebrew Dictionary, and Tyndale House's Translators Brief lexicon. Where a cell says a work has no entry, that work genuinely has none for this word.

for redeemer their [is] strong he he will conduct the object marker case their with you
כִּֽי־ki- for H3588 Particle
4,483× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
A conjunction used to show cause or connection, as in Genesis 2:23 where Adam says the woman is bone of his bone because she was taken out of him. It is often translated as 'for', 'because', or 'since'.
Tyndale gloss
for
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

כִּי (ki) is a conjunction primarily meaning 'that,' 'for,' or 'when.' It indicates causal relationships and can express conditions like 'if' or 'though.' The word is versatile, appearing in various contexts to convey certainty, exception, or concession. Notably, it can combine with other particles to modify its meaning, such as in the phrase כִּי אם־ (ki im), meaning 'that if.'

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

כִּי conj. that, for, when

that

Of time, when, of the past

elsewhere כִּי has a force approximating to if, though it usu. represents a case as more likely to occur than אִם

when or if, with a concessive force, i.e. though

Because, since

base

כִּי אם־

each part. retaining its independent force, and relating to a different clause:

that if

for if

(About 140 t.) the two particles being closely conjoined, and relating to the same clause—

limiting the prec. clause, except

the if being neglected, and treated as pleonastic, so that the clause is no longer a limitation of the preceding clause but a contradiction of it: but rather, but

after an oath, surely

base

כִּי עַל כֵּן forasmuch as

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H3588a כִּי that, for, when . that

. . Of time, when, of the past

. elsewhere כִּי has a force approximating to if, though it usu. represents a case as more likely to occur than אִם

. when or if, with a concessive force, i.e. though

. Because, since

H3588b כִּי אם־ . each part. retaining its independent force, and relating to a different clause: . that if

. for if

. (About 140 t.) the two particles being closely conjoined, and relating to the same clause— . limiting the prec. clause, except

. the if being neglected, and treated as pleonastic, so that the clause is no longer a limitation of the preceding clause but a contradiction of it: but rather, but

. after an oath, surely

H3588c כִּי עַל כֵּן forasmuch as

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

3588 kiy kee

a primitive particle (the full form of the prepositional

prefix) indicating causal relations of all kinds, antecedent

or consequent; (by implication) very widely used as a relative

conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by

other particles annexed:--and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch,

where-)as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else,

even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, +

nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then,

therefore, + (al- )though, + till, truly, + until, when,

whether, while, whom, yea, yet.

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

כִּי (ki) — for.

1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since

1a) that

1a1) yea, indeed

1b) when (of time)

1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force)

1c) because, since (causal connection)

1d) but (after negative)

1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if

1f) but rather, but

1g) except that

1h) only, nevertheless

1i) surely

1j) that is

1k) but if

1l) for though

1m) forasmuch as, for therefore

כִּי [אם] (ki im) — that if: except.

1) except if

1a) but if

1b) even though

כִּי [עַל כֵּן] (ki [al ken]) — for as that: since.

1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since

1a) that

1a1) yea, indeed

1b) when (of time)

1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force)

1c) because, since (causal connection)

1d) but (after negative)

Read the full entry →
Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Conj — Particle
HTc
Bible dictionarieson the English sense
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia

for (ki (conjunction), le, from 'el (preposition), and various other words. In the New Testament also the words are various, chiefly gar, kai gar, hoti (conjunctions); anti apo eis dia (accusative), epi (dative and accusative), peri (genitive), pros (genitive and accusative), huper (genitive) (prepositions)): the English Revised Version and the American Standard Revised Version give in many cases more literal or more accurate renderings than those in the King James Version.

In the New Testament the most important preps. from a doctrinal point of view are anti, "face to face," "over against," "instead," "on behalf of," peri, "around," "about," "concerning," huper, "over," "on behalf of." The first has been claimed as stating the substitutionary nature of Christ's sacrifice as contrasted with huper and peri, more frequently used of it. But, although anti in the New Testament often means…

The company it keepswords that stand beside it more often than chance
for redeemer their [is] strong he he will conduct the object marker case their with you
גֹאֲלָ֥םgo.'a.Lam redeemer their H1350 Verb qal participle (active) masculine singular common · suffix
104× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
This Hebrew word means redemption, describing the act of a kinsman buying back a relative's property or marrying their widow, as seen in the story of Boaz in Ruth.
Amplified meaning
mighty Protector, strong Defender
Tyndale gloss
to redeem: redeem
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

גָּאַל (ga'al) is a Hebrew verb meaning to redeem, often in the context of acting as a kinsman-redeemer. It encompasses various forms of redemption, including buying back property, marrying a relative's widow, and delivering individuals or Israel from bondage or exile. The related noun גְּאוּלַי (geulai) signifies the concept of redemption itself.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

גָּאַל vb. redeem, act as kinsman

Qal

act as kinsman, do the part of next of kin

redeem, by payment of value assessed

redeem, with God as subj. implying personal relationship

Niph

refl. redeem oneself

pass. be redeemed

base

גְּאוּלַי Is 63:4, n. abstr. redemption

ref

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H1350a גָּאַל redeem, act as kinsman .. act as kinsman, do the part of next of kin

. redeem, by payment of value assessed

. redeem, with God as subj. implying personal relationship

.. refl. redeem oneself

. pass. be redeemed

H1350b גְּאוּלַי n. abstr. redemption

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

1350 ga'al gaw-al'

a primitive root, to redeem (according to the Oriental law of

kinship), i.e. to be the next of kin (and as such to buy back

a relative's property, marry his widow, etc.):--X in any wise,

X at all, avenger, deliver, (do, perform the part of near,

next) kinsfolk(-man), purchase, ransom, redeem(-er), revenger.

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

גָּאַל (ga.al) — to redeem: redeem.

: redeem

1) to redeem, act as kinsman-redeemer, avenge, revenge, ransom, do the part of a kinsman

1a) (Qal)

1a1) to act as kinsman, do the part of next of kin, act as kinsman-redeemer

1a1a) by marrying brother's widow to beget a child for him, to redeem from slavery, to redeem land, to exact vengeance

1a2) to redeem (by payment)

1a3) to redeem (with God as subject)

1a3a) individuals from death

1a3b) Israel from Egyptian bondage

1a3c) Israel from exile

1b) (Niphal)

1b1) to redeem oneself

1b2) to be redeemed

גְּאוּלַי (ge.u.lay) — redemption.

redemption

גָּאַל (ga.al) — to redeem: avenge.

: avenge

1) to redeem, act as kinsman-redeemer, avenge, revenge, ransom, do the part of a kinsman

1a) (Qal)

1a1) to act as kinsman, do the part of next of kin, act as kinsman-redeemer

Read the full entry →
Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
V-Qal | Suff — Verb qal participle (active) masculine singular common · suffix
HVqrmsc/Sp3mp
for redeemer their [is] strong he he will conduct the object marker case their with you
חָזָ֑קcha.Zak [is] strong H2389 Adj
56× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
Strong refers to something or someone powerful, but often in a bad sense, like being severe or hard, as translated in the KJV.
Amplified meaning
powerful, severe
Tyndale gloss
strong
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

חָזָק (chazaq) means strong, stout, or mighty, often with a connotation of severity or hardness. It can also refer to a strong person as a noun. The word is built from a root that suggests strength in various contexts, including boldness and violence.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

חָזָק adj. strong, stout, mighty

strong

as subst., a strong one

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H2389 חָזָק strong, stout, mighty . strong

. as subst., a strong one

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

2389 chazaq khaw-zawk'

from 2388; strong (usu. in a bad sense, hard, bold,

violent):--harder, hottest, + impudent, loud, mighty, sore,

stiff(-hearted), strong(-er).

see HEBREW for 02388

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

חָזָק (cha.zaq) — strong.

1) strong, stout, mighty

1a) strong

1a1) severe, sharp, hot

1a2) firm, hard

1b) a strong one (subst)

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Adj — Adj
HAamsa
for redeemer their [is] strong he he will conduct the object marker case their with you
הֽוּא־hu'- he H1931 Pronoun
1,879× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
This word is a pronoun meaning 'he', 'she', or 'it', used to refer to a person or thing. It is used in the Bible to emphasize a subject or make it clear who is being talked about.
Tyndale gloss
he/she/it
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

הוּא (hu) is a third-person singular pronoun meaning he, she, or it, used for emphasis or when no verb is present. It can also refer to oneself or serve as a demonstrative pronoun. The word has various nuances, including resuming the subject with emphasis or expressing it unobtrusively. It can indicate 'that' or 'those' when used with the definite article.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

הוּא m. הִיא f., pron. of the 3rd ps. sing. he, she, used also (in both genders) for the neuter it

an emph. he (she, it, they), sometimes equivalent to himself (herself, itself, themselves), or (esp. with the art.) that (those)

It resumes the subj. with emph.

Where, however, the pron. follows the pred., its position gives it the minimum of emphasis, and it expresses (or resumes) the subject as unobtrusively as possible

It anticipates (as it seems) the subject

As an emph. predicate, of God

In a neuter sense, that, it (of an action, occurrence, matte, etc.)

With the art.: so regularly when joined to a subst. defined itself by the art.

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H1931 הוּא, הִיא he, she, used also (in both genders) for the neuter it . an emph. he (she, it, they), sometimes equivalent to himself (herself, itself, themselves), or (esp. with the art.) that (those)

. It resumes the subj. with emph.

. Where, however, the pron. follows the pred., its position gives it the minimum of emphasis, and it expresses (or resumes) the subject as unobtrusively as possible

. It anticipates (as it seems) the subject

. As an emph. predicate, of God

. In a neuter sense, that, it (of an action, occurrence, matte, etc.)

. With the art.: so regularly when joined to a subst. defined itself by the art.

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

1931 huw' hoo

of which the feminine (beyond the Pentateuch) is hiyw {he}; a

primitive word, the third person pronoun singular, he (she or

it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also

(intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same;

sometimes (as demonstrative) this or that; occasionally

(instead of copula) as or are:--he, as for her, him(-self),

it, the same, she (herself), such, that (...it), these, they,

this, those, which (is), who.

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

הוּא (hu) — he/she/it.

pron 3p s

1) he, she, it

1a) himself (with emphasis)

1b) resuming subj with emphasis

1c) (with minimum emphasis following predicate)

1d) (anticipating subj)

1e) (emphasising predicate)

1f) that, it (neuter) demons pron

2) that (with article)

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Pron — Pronoun
HPp3ms
Bible dictionarieson the English sense
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia

ha: The fifth letter of the Hebrew alphabet; transliterated in this Encyclopedia as "h." It came also to be used for the number 5. For name, etc., see ALPHABET.

The company it keepswords that stand beside it more often than chance
for redeemer their [is] strong he he will conduct the object marker case their with you
יָרִ֖יבya.Riv he will conduct H7378 Verb · Qal · imperfect third person masculine singular
67× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to argue or contend with someone, like in a lawsuit or a heated debate. It is used in various forms, such as physically fighting or verbally complaining. This concept appears in books like Genesis and Exodus.
Amplified meaning
plead, contend for
Tyndale gloss
to contend
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

רִיב (riyb) means to strive or contend, often in a figurative sense of grappling or wrangling. It can refer to physical struggle, verbal disputes, legal cases, or complaints. The entries indicate that it encompasses a range of meanings from quarreling to defending one's position. There is no significant disagreement among the lexicons.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

רִיב vb. strive, contend

Qal strive

Hiph. (those) displaying contention against him

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H7378 רִיב strive, contend

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

7378 riyb reeb

or ruwb {roob}; a primitive root; properly, to toss, i.e.

grapple; mostly figuratively, to wrangle, i.e. hold a

controversy; (by implication) to defend:--adversary, chide,

complain, contend, debate, X ever, X lay wait, plead, rebuke,

strive, X thoroughly.

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

רִיב (riv) — to contend.

1) to strive, contend

1a) (Qal)

1a1) to strive

1a1a) physically

1a1b) with words

1a2) to conduct a case or suit (legal), sue

1a3) to make complaint

1a4) to quarrel

1b) (Hiphil) to contend against

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
V-Qal-Imperf-3ms — Verb · Qal · imperfect third person masculine singular
HVqi3ms
Bible dictionarieson the English sense
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia

kon'-dukt.

See ETHICS.

for redeemer their [is] strong he he will conduct the object marker case their with you
אֶת־'et- the object marker H853 Particle
10,946× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Tyndale gloss
[Obj.]
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

אֵת (eth) is primarily a grammatical marker in Hebrew, indicating the definite direct object of a verb. It is not translated into English and typically precedes nouns that are definite. The word is derived from a demonstrative sense of entity, related to the Hebrew word for 'self.' Its Aramaic equivalent is יָת (yat).

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

אֵת the mark of the accusative, prefixed as a rule only to nouns that are definite

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H853 אֵת the mark of the accusative, prefixed as a rule only to nouns that are definite

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

853 'eth ayth

apparent contracted from 226 in the demonstrative sense of

entity; properly, self (but generally used to point out more

definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or

namely):--(as such unrepresented in English).

see HEBREW for 0226

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

אֵת (et) — [Obj.].

sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative

Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
HTo — Particle
HTo
The company it keepswords that stand beside it more often than chance
for redeemer their [is] strong he he will conduct the object marker case their with you
רִיבָ֣םri.Vam case their H7379 Noun common masculine singular construct · suffix
61× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
This Hebrew word refers to a dispute or quarrel between people, which can be a physical fight or a verbal argument. It is often used to describe a lawsuit or controversy, and appears in books like Deuteronomy and Job.
Amplified meaning
cause, strife
Tyndale gloss
strife
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

רִיב (riyb) refers to strife or dispute, encompassing personal or legal contests. It can denote adversarial situations, chiding, or legal cases. The entries consistently highlight its meanings related to conflict, such as quarrels and controversies, without significant disagreement among the lexicons.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

רִיב 62 n.m. strife, dispute

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H7379 רִיב strife, dispute

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

7379 riyb reeb

or rib {reeb}; from 7378; a contest (personal or legal):--+

adversary, cause, chiding, contend(-tion), controversy,

multitude (from the margin), pleading, strife, strive(-ing),

suit.

see HEBREW for 07378

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

רִיב (riv) — strife.

1) strife, controversy, dispute

1a) strife, quarrel

1b) dispute, controversy, case at law

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
N-cs | Suff — Noun common masculine singular construct · suffix
HNcmsc/Sp3mp
for redeemer their [is] strong he he will conduct the object marker case their with you
אִתָּֽךְ׃'i.Takh with you H854 Preposition · suffix
929× in the OT scale is logarithmic — the commonest word, אֵת, appears about 11,000×
In plain English
Meaning
This Hebrew preposition means 'with' or 'near', indicating a close relationship or physical proximity. It's used in Genesis 1:26 to describe God's relationship with humanity, and in many other places to show connection or closeness.
Amplified meaning
with thee, in court
Tyndale gloss
with
Hebrew lexiconskeyed to Strong's numbers
Layman’s summary of all Lexicon entries.generated

The Hebrew word אֵת (eth) is a preposition indicating nearness or proximity, often translated as 'with' or 'near.' It conveys a sense of companionship or association, distinguishing itself from similar terms by expressing closer relationships. The entries highlight its use in various contexts, including possession and memory, but do not provide specific verse references.

Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew Lexicon (full)

אֵת, prep. with—prep. denoting proximity

Of companionship, together with

Of localities

אֵת פּ׳ denotes specially

in one's possession or keeping

in one's knowledge or memory

מֵאֵת from proximity with

Note. אֵת expresses closer association than עִם: hence while מֵעִם sts. denotes hardly more than from the surroundings or belongings of, מֵאֵת expresses from close proximity to.

base

Brown-Driver-Briggs glosses

H854 אֵת with—prep. denoting proximity . Of companionship, together with

. Of localities

. אֵת פּ׳ denotes specially . in one's possession or keeping

. in one's knowledge or memory

. מֵאֵת from proximity with

Note. אֵת expresses closer association than עִם: hence while מֵעִם sts. denotes hardly more than from the surroundings or belongings of, מֵאֵת expresses from close proximity to.

Strong's Hebrew Dictionary

854 'eth ayth

probably from 579; properly, nearness (used only as a

preposition or an adverb), near; hence, generally, with, by,

at, among, etc.:--against, among, before, by, for, from,

in(-to), (out) of, with. Often with another prepositional

prefix.

see HEBREW for 0579

Translators Brief Hebrew Lexicon

אֵת (et) — with.

1) with, near, together with

1a) with, together with

1b) with (of relationship)

1c) near (of place)

1d) with (poss.)

1e) from...with, from (with other prep)

Morphologythe parsing behind the code
Berean parsing
Prep | Suff — Preposition · suffix
HR/Sp2ms
Sources on this page. Lexicons and dictionaries imported from the CrossWire SWORD modules — Abbott-Smith, Strong's, Dodson, the Intermediate Liddell-Scott-Jones, Robinson and Packard, Webster and Cawdrey. Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament (Harper, 1889 — Grimm’s Wilke’s Clavis Novi Testamenti, translated, revised and enlarged by Joseph Henry Thayer) is public domain and is set here from the Internet Archive page scan greekenglishlex00grim; it is uncorrected OCR, marked as such on the entry itself, and the Strong’s numbers — which Thayer’s own edition does not carry — were matched by lemma against the other modules on this page. Trench’s Synonyms of the New Testament (Macmillan, 1880) and Moulton and Milligan’s Vocabulary of the Greek Testament (Hodder & Stoughton, 1930, which entered the United States public domain on 1 January 2026) are set from Internet Archive page scans synonymsofnewtes00treniala and vocabularyofgree00mouluoft, and are likewise uncorrected OCR matched to Strong’s numbers by lemma. Trench treats a group of words at once, so the same essay stands on the page of each word it compares. The Mounce Concise Greek-English Dictionary is © 1993 and is used here by permission for non-commercial use, www.teknia.com/greek-dictionary. The full Liddell-Scott-Jones and the Hebrew word data (TAHOT) come from STEPBible.org, CC BY 4.0. Brown-Driver-Briggs is the OpenScriptures digitisation, public domain. Syntax analysis is the Nestle 1904 Lowfat treebank (biblicalhumanities.org); the concordance and morphology are built from the tagged Nestle 1904 text. Septuagint occurrences use the Open Scriptures Septuagint lemma index, derived from CCAT (University of Pennsylvania) and the Rahlfs 1935 dataset by Eliran Wong, CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 — used here on a non-commercial ministry site. Greek of Josephus and Barnabas from the Perseus Digital Library, CC BY-SA 4.0. Commentaries and the Ante-Nicene Fathers are public-domain texts hosted on this site. Everyday Greek from the Duke Databank of Documentary Papyri, CC BY 3.0, with dates and provenance from the Heidelberger Gesamtverzeichnis. Philo and the Apostolic Fathers from Open Greek and Latin (First1KGreek), CC BY-SA 4.0. The apparatus and the fifth Greek column are the SBL Greek New Testament, © 2010 SBL and Logos Bible Software, CC BY 4.0. The Latin is the Clementine Vulgate (public domain); the Syriac New Testament is the ETCBC edition (MIT licence). The Hebrew behind the Greek is computed here from the Septuagint index and TAHOT, not taken from any aligned edition. The translation spread and the per-word edition marks come from the Translators Amalgamated Greek NT (STEPBible, CC BY 4.0); clause roles from the Nestle 1904 Lowfat treebank (CC BY-SA 4.0); place identifications and their confidence from OpenBible.info Bible Geocoding (CC BY 4.0), with map tiles © OpenStreetMap contributors. Gospel parallels are computed here from shared uncommon vocabulary, not taken from any printed harmony. Cross references are the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge and the subject headings are Nave’s Topical Bible, both public domain. Works under Creative Commons licences are used unchanged apart from markup removal.

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