Gibborim (biblical)

Gibborim (Hebrew: גִּבֹּרִ֛ים, singular גִּבֹּר gibbor) is a Hebrew word that can be glossed 'mightiest', and is an intensive for gabar (גּבר 'mighty'). In the Hebrew Bible, it is used to describe people who are valiant, mighty, or of great stature. There is some confusion about Gibborim as a class of beings because of the term's use in Genesis 6:4, which describes the Nephilim as mighty (gibborim).

The word gibborim' is used in the Tanakh over 150 times and applied to men as well as lions (Proverbs 30:30), hunters (Genesis 10:9), soldiers (Jeremiah 51:30) and leaders (Daniel 11:3). The word is also applied to David's Mighty Warriors, a group of 37 men who fought with King David identified in 2 Samuel 23:8–38.

In Modern Hebrew, the word gibbor (גִּבּוֹר) equates with the English word 'hero' (if noun), or 'brave' (if adjective).

Contemporary Understanding

In contemporary usage, "gibborim" is often used to describe heroes or champions. It is a term that is used to describe individuals who exhibit exceptional strength, courage, and prowess. The word is often associated with sports, where it is used to describe athletes who exhibit exceptional skill and ability.

However, the term "gibborim" is most commonly associated with the Bible. In the Bible, "gibborim" is used to describe a group of people who are referred to as the "mighty men" or the "heroes of old." These individuals were known for their exceptional strength and bravery, and they were often called upon to defend their people in times of war and conflict.

Overall, the term "gibborim" is a powerful and evocative term that is used to describe individuals who exhibit exceptional strength, courage, and prowess. It is a term that has been used for centuries to describe heroes, warriors, and leaders, and it continues to be used today in a variety of contexts.