Original Word: זָבַל
Part of Speech: Verb
Transliteration: zabal
Pronunciation: zah-BAHL
Phonetic Spelling: (zaw-bal')
Definition: To dwell, to reside, to exalt
Meaning: to reside

dwell with

A primitive root; apparently properly, to inclose, i.e. To reside -- dwell with.

Word Origin
a prim. root
Definition
probably to dwell
NASB Translation
dwell (1).

[זָבַל] verb probably exalt, honour (Assyrian zabâlu COT^Gloss and id. on Genesis 30:20; 1 Kings 8:13, compare Dl^{Pr 62 f.} so De; Phoenician proper name, feminine בעלאזבל (probably = Baal has exalted) compare אִיזֶבֶל above; compare Arabic take up and carry; > Nö^{ZMG 1886, 729}, who connects these verbs with Syriac bear, carry, compare Hebrew סָבַל) —

Qal Imperfect יִזְבְּלֵנִי אִישִׁי Genesis 30:20b (J), my husband will honour me (in explanation of name Zebulun (see below); on another apparently explanation in v^a compare זבד); > AV and others dwell with me, compare Thes Rob-Ges who derive dwell with from an assumed meaning be round (compare דור); and others (compare MV^{8. 9}), who derive dwell as denominative from זְבֻל in sense dwelling.

Word Origin: A primitive root

Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: The corresponding Greek entry in Strong's Concordance is G140, δόξα (doxa), which primarily means glory or honor. While δόξα does not directly translate to the concept of residing, it is often associated with the presence and dwelling of God, particularly in the New Testament, where God's glory is revealed through Jesus Christ and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit among believers. This connection highlights the theological theme of God's presence and glory residing with His people.

Usage: The verb זָבַל (zābal) is used in the context of dwelling or residing, often implying a sense of permanence or established habitation.

Context: The Hebrew verb זָבַל (zābal) appears in the Old Testament with the primary meaning of residing or dwelling. It is a primitive root that conveys the idea of establishing a place of habitation. This term is not frequently used in the Hebrew Bible, but it carries significant implications when it does appear, often in poetic or metaphorical contexts.

In Genesis 30:20, Leah uses a form of this verb when she names her son Zebulun, expressing her hope that her husband will now dwell with her: "Then Leah said, 'God has given me a good gift. Now my husband will dwell with me, because I have borne him six sons.' So she named him Zebulun." (BSB)

The usage of זָבַל (zābal) in this context highlights the cultural and relational aspects of dwelling, emphasizing the importance of familial and marital bonds in ancient Israelite society. The name Zebulun itself, derived from this root, reflects Leah's desire for a stable and enduring relationship with her husband, Jacob.

The concept of dwelling is also significant in theological contexts, where it can refer to God's presence among His people. Although זָבַל (zābal) is not the primary term used for God's dwelling, the idea of God residing with His people is a central theme throughout the Scriptures, underscoring the covenant relationship between God and Israel.

יִזְבְּלֵ֣נִי יזבלני yiz·bə·lê·nî yizbeLeni yizbəlênîInterlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts