G

Gabbatha The Hebrew name of the place of judgment at Jerusalem, called the Pavement (probably tessellated), because it was paved with stones, as the Greek word implies; but the Hebrew word signifies “high or elevated.” John 19:1313When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he brought Jesus forth, and sat down in the judgment seat in a place that is called the Pavement, but in the Hebrew, Gabbatha. (John 19:13). {See Pavement}
Gaius
1. A convert of Macedonia. Acts 19:2929And the whole city was filled with confusion: and having caught Gaius and Aristarchus, men of Macedonia, Paul's companions in travel, they rushed with one accord into the theatre. (Acts 19:29).
2. A convert of Derbe. Acts 20:44And there accompanied him into Asia Sopater of Berea; and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus; and Gaius of Derbe, and Timotheus; and of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus. (Acts 20:4).
3. A Christian whom Paul had baptized; he calls him his “host” and “of the whole church.” Rom. 16:2323Gaius mine host, and of the whole church, saluteth you. Erastus the chamberlain of the city saluteth you, and Quartus a brother. (Romans 16:23); 1 Cor. 1:1414I thank God that I baptized none of you, but Crispus and Gaius; (1 Corinthians 1:14).
4. A convert, to whom the third Epistle by John is addressed. 3 John 11The elder unto the wellbeloved Gaius, whom I love in the truth. (3 John 1).
Galbanum An aromatic plant is a Persian plant, and formed one of the ingredients of the sacred incense.
Galileans These are named only in Acts 5:37,37After this man rose up Judas of Galilee in the days of the taxing, and drew away much people after him: he also perished; and all, even as many as obeyed him, were dispersed. (Acts 5:37) being the followers of one Judas a Galilean, who declared that tribute was due to God only, and ought not to be paid to the Romans. This he did in “the days of the taxing,” or when a census was taken in A.D. 6, when Archelaus was banished. Though Judas perished, his followers were dispersed and secretly propagated his opinions.
We thus see how needful it was at that time to teach submission to the powers that be, as God did by Paul in Romans 13:1-7,1Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. 2Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. 3For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: 4For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. 5Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. 6For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. 7Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor. (Romans 13:1‑7) where the words occur, “pay ye tribute also.” (See also 1 Peter 2:13-1713Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; 14Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. 15For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men: 16As free, and not using your liberty for a cloke of maliciousness, but as the servants of God. 17Honor all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king. (1 Peter 2:13‑17).)
Galilee A large district towards the north of Israel on the west of the Jordan and the lake, having Samaria on its south. After the captivity, many from various nations settled in Galilee, which accounts for its being called “Galilee of the Gentiles,” (Matt. 4:1515The land of Zabulon, and the land of Nephthalim, by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles; (Matthew 4:15)), though many Jews were there also. In Galilee much of the time of the Lord’s ministry was spent (Matt. 4:2323And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people. (Matthew 4:23); Mark 1:3939And he preached in their synagogues throughout all Galilee, and cast out devils. (Mark 1:39)), and there many of His miracles were performed, which called forth the doom of those that rejected Him. Galilee had many towns and villages, and was thickly populated.
Gall χολή, A word used for what is extremely bitter, as gall, bile, etc. Matt. 27:3434They gave him vinegar to drink mingled with gall: and when he had tasted thereof, he would not drink. (Matthew 27:34). It was given by the Romans to criminals about to be crucified to stupefy them, that they might suffer the less: our Lord refused it. In Mark 15:2323And they gave him to drink wine mingled with myrrh: but he received it not. (Mark 15:23) it is called “myrrh,” which is also very nauseous. Peter declared Simon to be in “the gall of bitterness,” as expressive of the extreme offensiveness of Simon’s spirit to a spiritual mind. Acts 8:2323For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity. (Acts 8:23).
Gamaliel A doctor of the law of great repute, at whose feet Paul had been brought up. He gave the wise counsel when the apostles were arrested, that if their mission were not of God it would come to nothing; and if it were of God they could not overthrow it. He is reported by the Jews to have died a Pharisee, but ecclesiastical traditions claim him as a Christian. Acts 5:34; 22:334Then stood there up one in the council, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law, had in reputation among all the people, and commanded to put the apostles forth a little space; (Acts 5:34)
3I am verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, and taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God, as ye all are this day. (Acts 22:3).
Garlic A well-known Egyptian vegetable.
Garments There are but few references in the N.T. to define articles of clothing. In Matthew 5:4040And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloke also. (Matthew 5:40) and Luke 6:29,29And unto him that smiteth thee on the one cheek offer also the other; and him that taketh away thy cloke forbid not to take thy coat also. (Luke 6:29) a “coat” and “cloak” are referred to: ἰμάτιον is the “cloak,” a loose outer garment, and the “coat” is χιτών, a vest or tunic. The disciples were not to take two of these when they were sent out. Matt. 10:1010Nor scrip for your journey, neither two coats, neither shoes, nor yet staves: for the workman is worthy of his meat. (Matthew 10:10); Mark 6:99But be shod with sandals; and not put on two coats. (Mark 6:9); Luke 9:33And he said unto them, Take nothing for your journey, neither staves, nor scrip, neither bread, neither money; neither have two coats apiece. (Luke 9:3). It was a χιτών of the Lord’s that was woven from top to bottom without seam, John 19:2323Then the soldiers, when they had crucified Jesus, took his garments, and made four parts, to every soldier a part; and also his coat: now the coat was without seam, woven from the top throughout. (John 19:23); and it was such that Dorcas made, Acts 9:39,39Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and showing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them. (Acts 9:39) as well as “garments,” ἰμάτιον. By John 19:2323Then the soldiers, when they had crucified Jesus, took his garments, and made four parts, to every soldier a part; and also his coat: now the coat was without seam, woven from the top throughout. (John 19:23) it appears that besides the “coat,” each of the four soldiers had a part of the Lord’s raiment, and these are supposed to have been the turban or handkerchief worn round the head; the girdle; the sandals; and the outer cloak; these with the tunic constitute the usual dress of the people at this day. A symbol of practical holiness. Rev. 3:4: 16:15; Jude 2323And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh. (Jude 23); Ex. 28:40-4340And for Aaron's sons thou shalt make coats, and thou shalt make for them girdles, and bonnets shalt thou make for them, for glory and for beauty. 41And thou shalt put them upon Aaron thy brother, and his sons with him; and shalt anoint them, and consecrate them, and sanctify them, that they may minister unto me in the priest's office. 42And thou shalt make them linen breeches to cover their nakedness; from the loins even unto the thighs they shall reach: 43And they shall be upon Aaron, and upon his sons, when they come in unto the tabernacle of the congregation, or when they come near unto the altar to minister in the holy place; that they bear not iniquity, and die: it shall be a statute for ever unto him and his seed after him. (Exodus 28:40‑43). Symbol of  outward character. Jude 2323And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh. (Jude 23); Rev. 3:4; 16:154Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy. (Revelation 3:4)
15Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame. (Revelation 16:15).
Gate
1. A symbol of a place of government and authority. Matt. 16:1818And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. (Matthew 16:18); Gen. 19:11And there came two angels to Sodom at even; and Lot sat in the gate of Sodom: and Lot seeing them rose up to meet them; and he bowed himself with his face toward the ground; (Genesis 19:1); Rev. 21:12-1312And had a wall great and high, and had twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and names written thereon, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel: 13On the east three gates; on the north three gates; on the south three gates; and on the west three gates. (Revelation 21:12‑13).
2. Open gate denotes security. Isa. 60:1111Therefore thy gates shall be open continually; they shall not be shut day nor night; that men may bring unto thee the forces of the Gentiles, and that their kings may be brought. (Isaiah 60:11); Rev. 21:2525And the gates of it shall not be shut at all by day: for there shall be no night there. (Revelation 21:25).
Gaza A village situated near the Mediterranean, about 31° 30' N. now called Ghuzzeh. Water may still be seen near the road in the neighborhood of which the Ethiopian was baptized: it is a district “without villages or fixed habitation.” Acts 8:2626And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert. (Acts 8:26).
Gehazi valley of vision. Divine discovery of and Divine judgment upon sin in those externally near to God. Name occurs about 12 Times, and only in second book of Kings. 2 Kings 4.
Generation
1. γενεά, used
a. from father to son (Matt. 1:1717So all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations; and from David until the carrying away into Babylon are fourteen generations; and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ are fourteen generations. (Matthew 1:17));
b. for a race then existing (Matt. 11:1616But whereunto shall I liken this generation? It is like unto children sitting in the markets, and calling unto their fellows, (Matthew 11:16));
c. for the continuance of the race of unbelieving Jews (Matt. 24:3434Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled. (Matthew 24:34); Mark 13:3030Verily I say unto you, that this generation shall not pass, till all these things be done. (Mark 13:30); Luke 21:3232Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass away, till all be fulfilled. (Luke 21:32)).
2. γέννημα, “offspring,” where there is moral likeness: as “generation of vipers.” Matt. 3:7; 12:34; 23:337But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? (Matthew 3:7)
34O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. (Matthew 12:34)
33Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell? (Matthew 23:33); Luke 3:77Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be baptized of him, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? (Luke 3:7).
3. γένεσις, “birth generation, descent.” Matt. 1:11The book of the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. (Matthew 1:1).
4. γένος, “species, family,” etc. 1 Peter 2:99But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: (1 Peter 2:9).
Gennesaret, Lake of, Sea of Galilee; Sea of Tiberias, {See Holy Land – Physical Features in Bible Subjects}
Gennesaret, Land of, A district of Galilee, lying to the N.W. of the Lake, a most fertile plain of about a mile wide, and three miles long. Springs run through it into the lake. Matt. 14:3434And when they were gone over, they came into the land of Gennesaret. (Matthew 14:34); Mark 6:5353And when they had passed over, they came into the land of Gennesaret, and drew to the shore. (Mark 6:53).
Gentile
1. ἔθνος, having the meaning of “nation, people,” any nation in contradistinction from the Jews (Matt. 10:5,18,5These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, saying, Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not: (Matthew 10:5)
18And ye shall be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles. (Matthew 10:18) etc.), though the same word is used in Luke 7:55For he loveth our nation, and he hath built us a synagogue. (Luke 7:5); John 11:4848If we let him thus alone, all men will believe on him: and the Romans shall come and take away both our place and nation. (John 11:48) for the Jewish “nation” as a nation, and in 1 Peter 2:99But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: (1 Peter 2:9) for the people of God, holy “nation.”
2. Ελλην, better translated “Greek” (as it is mostly), in distinction from the Jews. John 7:3535Then said the Jews among themselves, Whither will he go, that we shall not find him? will he go unto the dispersed among the Gentiles, and teach the Gentiles? (John 7:35); Rom. 2:9-10; 3:99Tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile; 10But glory, honor, and peace, to every man that worketh good, to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile: (Romans 2:9‑10)
9What then? are we better than they? No, in no wise: for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin; (Romans 3:9); 1 Cor. 10:32; 12:1332Give none offence, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles, nor to the church of God: (1 Corinthians 10:32)
13For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. (1 Corinthians 12:13). Not to be confounded with “Ελληνιστής”, which refers to Hellenists, Greek-speaking Jews. Acts 6:1; 9:291And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration. (Acts 6:1)
29And he spake boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus, and disputed against the Grecians: but they went about to slay him. (Acts 9:29). In Acts 11:2020And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when they were come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus. (Acts 11:20) most editors read, “Greeks.”
Gershom, a stranger there. Christ having been rejected by Israel, is at present unknown by, and a stranger to, the ancient people (name not to be confounded with son of Levi, Num. 3). Occurs about 5 times, and only in the Old Testament. (Ex. 2:2222And she bare him a son, and he called his name Gershom: for he said, I have been a stranger in a strange land. (Exodus 2:22))
Gethsemane A garden on the slope of the Mount of Olives, to which our Lord often resorted with His disciples. The brook Cedron had to be crossed to reach the spot from Jerusalem. Matt. 26:3636Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder. (Matthew 26:36); Mark 14:3232And they came to a place which was named Gethsemane: and he saith to his disciples, Sit ye here, while I shall pray. (Mark 14:32). It was the place of the Lord’s agony, where He was “exceeding sorrowful unto death.” Mark 14:3434And saith unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful unto death: tarry ye here, and watch. (Mark 14:34) JND. His “agony” being such that the ground was moistened with His sweat as drops of blood! Here He was betrayed and taken prisoner. An enclosed space, in which are eight old olive trees, is shown to travellers as the garden of Gethsemane; but there is no certainty that this is the right spot. Titus cut down all the trees round Jerusalem at its siege.
Ghost πνεῦμα, spirit. {See Holy Spirit}
Glass Symbol of  transparent purity. Rev. 15:2; 21:18,212And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God. (Revelation 15:2)
18And the building of the wall of it was of jasper: and the city was pure gold, like unto clear glass. (Revelation 21:18)
21And the twelve gates were twelve pearls; every several gate was of one pearl: and the street of the city was pure gold, as it were transparent glass. (Revelation 21:21). Glass was known to the ancient Egyptians and Assyrians, though it was then not so clear as at present. 1 Corinthians 13:1212For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. (1 Corinthians 13:12) seems to point to a semi-transparent glass, because of the word “through.” “We see through a glass, darkly.” The word here, and in James 1:2323For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: (James 1:23) is ἔσοπτρον and is also applied to mirrors, and this agrees with James. Mirrors were then made of polished metal. In Revelation 4:6; 15:2; 21:18,216And before the throne there was a sea of glass like unto crystal: and in the midst of the throne, and round about the throne, were four beasts full of eyes before and behind. (Revelation 4:6)
2And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God. (Revelation 15:2)
18And the building of the wall of it was of jasper: and the city was pure gold, like unto clear glass. (Revelation 21:18)
21And the twelve gates were twelve pearls; every several gate was of one pearl: and the street of the city was pure gold, as it were transparent glass. (Revelation 21:21) another word is used (ὕαλος, ὑάλινος); and there we have “sea of glass,” “clear or pure glass,” transparent glass, evidently referring to a sort of crystal, more or less transparent. This signifies fixed, accomplished holiness in all its brightness.
Glede This unclean bird is probably of the vulture species. Deut. 14:1313And the glede, and the kite, and the vulture after his kind, (Deuteronomy 14:13). In the only other passage where the original word occurs it is translated “vulture.” Lev. 11:1414And the vulture, and the kite after his kind; (Leviticus 11:14).
Glory δόξα, “esteem, honour, excellency of mind, body,” etc.  It is applied to natural things, as the glory of the sun, moon, and stars, 1 Cor. 15:4141There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory. (1 Corinthians 15:41); Psa. 19:11<<To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David.>> The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament showeth his handywork. (Psalm 19:1); to man as “the image and glory of God,” 1 Cor. 11:77For a man indeed ought not to cover his head, forasmuch as he is the image and glory of God: but the woman is the glory of the man. (1 Corinthians 11:7); and through grace, believers are received to the glory of God. Rom. 15:77Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God. (Romans 15:7); 2 Cor. 4:1515For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God. (2 Corinthians 4:15). The Lord Jesus fully manifested the glory of God. John 1:14; 2:1114And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. (John 1:14)
11This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested forth his glory; and his disciples believed on him. (John 2:11). He speaks of the glory He had from eternity with the Father, and of His acquired glory which He will graciously share with His joint heirs. John 17:5,22,245And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was. (John 17:5)
22And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: (John 17:22)
24Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world. (John 17:24). The Lord Jesus will be hailed as King of kings and Lord of lords. 1 Peter 4:1313But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. (1 Peter 4:13); Rev. 17:14; 19:1614These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful. (Revelation 17:14)
16And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS. (Revelation 19:16). He is the Lord of glory. James 2:11My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons. (James 2:1). Glory really belongs to God. He is the God of glory. Acts 7:22And he said, Men, brethren, and fathers, hearken; The God of glory appeared unto our father Abraham, when he was in Mesopotamia, before he dwelt in Charran, (Acts 7:2); 2 Cor. 4:6,156For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. (2 Corinthians 4:6)
15For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God. (2 Corinthians 4:15). In Him shine, in infinite perfection, the divine attributes: it is in the acknowledgment of this, and that from Him come all their blessings, that Christians joyfully ascribe to Him Praise and Honour, Glory and Power forever and ever. Rom. 11:36; 16:2736For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen. (Romans 11:36)
27To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen. <<Written to the Romans from Corinthus, and sent by Phebe servant of the church at Cenchrea.>> (Romans 16:27); Gal. 1:55To whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. (Galatians 1:5); 1 Tim. 1:1717Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen. (1 Timothy 1:17). The same is ascribed to the Lord Jesus by every creature. Rev. 5; Phil. 2:10-1110That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; 11And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:10‑11). The visible manifestation of glory seems connected with light. God dwells “in  ... light, which no man can approach unto.” 1 Tim. 6:1616Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honor and power everlasting. Amen. (1 Timothy 6:16); Matt. 17:22And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. (Matthew 17:2). In the vision of the new Jerusalem the “glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof.” Rev. 21:2323And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof. (Revelation 21:23). We are saved by grace, Eph. 2:88For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: (Ephesians 2:8); we hope for glory, Rom. 5:22By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. (Romans 5:2). Glory is the outshining of God’s grace, effected by the power of the Lord Jesus Christ at His second coming. Our bodies, freed from every trace of mortality and corruption, will be glorified like His body of glory. Phil. 3:2121Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself. (Philippians 3:21). The church will very soon possess the glory of God, Rev. 21:11,11Having the glory of God: and her light was like unto a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal; (Revelation 21:11) the hope of which she even now rejoices in. Rom. 5:22By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. (Romans 5:2). Christ will be the measure of glory then, as He is the measure of grace now. For this glorious manifestation of the sons of God all creation eagerly awaiteth, because that glory will liberate the groaning creation. Rom. 8:19-2219For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God. 20For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope, 21Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. 22For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. (Romans 8:19‑22).
Gnat The reference is to the smallest of insects which is contrasted with the largest Palestinian animal the camel. The words in the text “strain at,” should be “strain out.” Matt. 23:2424Ye blind guides, which strain at a gnat, and swallow a camel. (Matthew 23:24).
Goat This clean animal was pre-eminently the sin-offering victim. In patriarchal times especially the goat formed an important and valuable item of wealth. Its flesh could be eaten for food, its milk was greatly prized, and its skin used for numerous purposes. Lev. 16:8,10,268And Aaron shall cast lots upon the two goats; one lot for the Lord, and the other lot for the scapegoat. (Leviticus 16:8)
10But the goat, on which the lot fell to be the scapegoat, shall be presented alive before the Lord, to make an atonement with him, and to let him go for a scapegoat into the wilderness. (Leviticus 16:10)
26And he that let go the goat for the scapegoat shall wash his clothes, and bathe his flesh in water, and afterward come into the camp. (Leviticus 16:26); Num. 15:24-2924Then it shall be, if ought be committed by ignorance without the knowledge of the congregation, that all the congregation shall offer one young bullock for a burnt offering, for a sweet savor unto the Lord, with his meat offering, and his drink offering, according to the manner, and one kid of the goats for a sin offering. 25And the priest shall make an atonement for all the congregation of the children of Israel, and it shall be forgiven them; for it is ignorance: and they shall bring their offering, a sacrifice made by fire unto the Lord, and their sin offering before the Lord, for their ignorance: 26And it shall be forgiven all the congregation of the children of Israel, and the stranger that sojourneth among them; seeing all the people were in ignorance. 27And if any soul sin through ignorance, then he shall bring a she goat of the first year for a sin offering. 28And the priest shall make an atonement for the soul that sinneth ignorantly, when he sinneth by ignorance before the Lord, to make an atonement for him; and it shall be forgiven him. 29Ye shall have one law for him that sinneth through ignorance, both for him that is born among the children of Israel, and for the stranger that sojourneth among them. (Numbers 15:24‑29). The habits and qualities of this well-known animal, both wild and domesticated, are frequently referred to in the Sacred Writings.
1. It is the symbol of the strong and compact Macedonian power, of Alexander the Macedonian king (Dan. 8:5,215And as I was considering, behold, an he goat came from the west on the face of the whole earth, and touched not the ground: and the goat had a notable horn between his eyes. (Daniel 8:5)
21And the rough goat is the king of Grecia: and the great horn that is between his eyes is the first king. (Daniel 8:21)), and of the great and mighty (Ezek. 39:1818Ye shall eat the flesh of the mighty, and drink the blood of the princes of the earth, of rams, of lambs, and of goats, of bullocks, all of them fatlings of Bashan. (Ezekiel 39:18)).
2. A symbol of the living wicked at Christ’s return. Matt. 25:32-3332And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats: 33And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. (Matthew 25:32‑33)
3. A symbol of the great sin offering. Lev. 16.
God θεός. The great self-existent Being, known by His works, even His eternal power and divinity (θειότης). Rom. 1:2020For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: (Romans 1:20); Psa. 19:11<<To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David.>> The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament showeth his handywork. (Psalm 19:1). He is the Lord God Almighty (Rev. 4:8,8And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him; and they were full of eyes within: and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come. (Revelation 4:8) etc.), and the Lord of Sabaoth (Rom. 9:2929And as Esaias said before, Except the Lord of Sabaoth had left us a seed, we had been as Sodoma, and been made like unto Gomorrha. (Romans 9:29); James 5:44Behold, the hire of the laborers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, crieth: and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of sabaoth. (James 5:4)). He was revealed in the Person of the Lord Jesus Christ, who was “God  ... manifest in the flesh” (1 Tim. 3:1616And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory. (1 Timothy 3:16)); and in the communications He has been pleased to make in His Word of Himself as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, three Persons but one God. “God is love” (1 John 4:88He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. (1 John 4:8); see also John 3:1616For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (John 3:16)), “God is light” (1 John 1:55This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. (1 John 1:5)); and the gracious name by which He is specially revealed to His saints in the N.T. is that of Father. John 20:1717Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father: but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God. (John 20:17). The principal of God’s attributes and characteristics named in Scripture are —
1. His eternity Isa. 57:1515For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones. (Isaiah 57:15); 1 Tim. 1:1717Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen. (1 Timothy 1:17).
2. Immortality 1 Tim. 6:1616Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honor and power everlasting. Amen. (1 Timothy 6:16); Psa. 90:22Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God. (Psalm 90:2).
3. Omnipotence Job 11:77Canst thou by searching find out God? canst thou find out the Almighty unto perfection? (Job 11:7); Rom. 1:2020For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: (Romans 1:20); cf. 1 Tim. 6:15,15Which in his times he shall show, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords; (1 Timothy 6:15) only Potentate.
4. Invisibility 1 Tim. 1:17; 6:1617Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen. (1 Timothy 1:17)
16Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honor and power everlasting. Amen. (1 Timothy 6:16).
5. Omnipresence Psa. 139:7-107Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence? 8If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. 9If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; 10Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me. (Psalm 139:7‑10); Jer. 23:23-2423Am I a God at hand, saith the Lord, and not a God afar off? 24Can any hide himself in secret places that I shall not see him? saith the Lord. Do not I fill heaven and earth? saith the Lord. (Jeremiah 23:23‑24).
6. Omniscience 1 Chron. 28:99And thou, Solomon my son, know thou the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind: for the Lord searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be found of thee; but if thou forsake him, he will cast thee off for ever. (1 Chronicles 28:9); Jer. 1:55Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations. (Jeremiah 1:5); Rom. 8:29-3029For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. 30Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified. (Romans 8:29‑30); Heb. 4:1313Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do. (Hebrews 4:13).
7. Incorruptibility Rom. 1:2323And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. (Romans 1:23); James 1:1313Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: (James 1:13).
8. Immutability Mal. 3:6,6For I am the Lord, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed. (Malachi 3:6) James 1:1717Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. (James 1:17).
9. Wisdom Psa. 104:2424O Lord, how manifold are thy works! in wisdom hast thou made them all: the earth is full of thy riches. (Psalm 104:24); Rom. 11: 33-36.
10. Holiness Amos 4:22The Lord God hath sworn by his holiness, that, lo, the days shall come upon you, that he will take you away with hooks, and your posterity with fishhooks. (Amos 4:2); Luke 1: 49.
11. Justice Rom. 2:6-76Who will render to every man according to his deeds: 7To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honor and immortality, eternal life: (Romans 2:6‑7); 2 Tim. 4:88Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing. (2 Timothy 4:8).
12. Grace and Mercy Luke 1:5050And his mercy is on them that fear him from generation to generation. (Luke 1:50); Rom. 3:2424Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: (Romans 3:24); Eph. 2:44But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, (Ephesians 2:4).
13. Long-suffering Num. 14:1818The Lord is longsuffering, and of great mercy, forgiving iniquity and transgression, and by no means clearing the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation. (Numbers 14:18); Rom. 2:44Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance? (Romans 2:4).
14. Faithfulness Psa. 92:22To show forth thy lovingkindness in the morning, and thy faithfulness every night, (Psalm 92:2); 1 Cor. 1:99God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord. (1 Corinthians 1:9).
How blessed to be able to say, with the Psalmist, “This God is our God for ever and ever” (Psa. 48:1414For this God is our God for ever and ever: he will be our guide even unto death. (Psalm 48:14)).
Godliness {See Piety}
Gog and Magog Two nations which Satan, after he is released from his 1,000 years’ imprisonment, will gather together to war against the camp of the saints and the beloved city (Jerusalem). Rev. 20:88And shall go out to deceive the nations which are in the four quarters of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them together to battle: the number of whom is as the sand of the sea. (Revelation 20:8). Fire will come from God and devour them (see Ezek. 38, 39). Doubtless nations to the north and north-east of Israel are alluded to, Russia being the head of them.
1. Historically, the future Russian Prince and his land; thus literally to be understood. Ezek. 38; 39.
2. The wicked on the earth at the close of the millennial reign; thus symbolically to be understood. Rev. 20:88And shall go out to deceive the nations which are in the four quarters of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them together to battle: the number of whom is as the sand of the sea. (Revelation 20:8).
Gold
1. A symbol of Divine glory.
2. A symbol of Divine righteousness. Heb. 9:44Which had the golden censer, and the ark of the covenant overlaid round about with gold, wherein was the golden pot that had manna, and Aaron's rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant; (Hebrews 9:4); Rev. 3:1818I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. (Revelation 3:18); 1 Kings 6:2222And the whole house he overlaid with gold, until he had finished all the house: also the whole altar that was by the oracle he overlaid with gold. (1 Kings 6:22).
3. A symbol of the Divine nature of the Lord. Ex. 25; 26; 28.
Golgotha {See Jerusalem in Bible Subjects}
Gomorrha {See Sodom}
Gopher Wood was used in the construction of Noah’s Ark. Both the “cypress” and the “cedar” were anciently used in ship building, but whether either was the “gopher wood” of Genesis 6 cannot with certainty be determined. Gen. 6:1414Make thee an ark of gopher wood; rooms shalt thou make in the ark, and shalt pitch it within and without with pitch. (Genesis 6:14).
Gospel εύαγγέλιον, “a good message, or good news.” The term is applied to the good news God sent His people in the Old Testament. Heb. 4:22For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it. (Hebrews 4:2). In the N.T. it more especially refers to the good news in connection with the Lord Jesus. At first this took the form of the “gospel of the kingdom.” Matt. 4:23; 9:35,23And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people. (Matthew 4:23)
35And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. (Matthew 9:35) etc. Then “the gospel of the grace of God” (Acts 20:2424But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God. (Acts 20:24)), and by Paul especially “the glad tidings of the glory,” (Christ being in the glory who put away our sins) (2 Cor. 4:44In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. (2 Corinthians 4:4) JND), which Paul calls “my gospel.” 2 Tim. 2:88Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead according to my gospel: (2 Timothy 2:8). It not only speaks of salvation, great as that is, but it separates the believer from earth and associates him with Christ in the glory. In a future day “the everlasting gospel” will be proclaimed which has always been the same: Fear God, give glory to Him, and worship Him as Creator. Rev. 14:66And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, (Revelation 14:6).
Gourd of Jonah was a plant peculiarly fitted to afford shade and shelter under a burning Eastern sky. It was and is still used in the construction of arbours.
Governor .1 ήλεμών, “a Roman leader, governor, prince.” Applied to Pontius Pilate, Matt. 27:2-272And when they had bound him, they led him away, and delivered him to Pontius Pilate the governor. 3Then Judas, which had betrayed him, when he saw that he was condemned, repented himself, and brought again the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders, 4Saying, I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood. And they said, What is that to us? see thou to that. 5And he cast down the pieces of silver in the temple, and departed, and went and hanged himself. 6And the chief priests took the silver pieces, and said, It is not lawful for to put them into the treasury, because it is the price of blood. 7And they took counsel, and bought with them the potter's field, to bury strangers in. 8Wherefore that field was called, The field of blood, unto this day. 9Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy the prophet, saying, And they took the thirty pieces of silver, the price of him that was valued, whom they of the children of Israel did value; 10And gave them for the potter's field, as the Lord appointed me. 11And Jesus stood before the governor: and the governor asked him, saying, Art thou the King of the Jews? And Jesus said unto him, Thou sayest. 12And when he was accused of the chief priests and elders, he answered nothing. 13Then said Pilate unto him, Hearest thou not how many things they witness against thee? 14And he answered him to never a word; insomuch that the governor marvelled greatly. 15Now at that feast the governor was wont to release unto the people a prisoner, whom they would. 16And they had then a notable prisoner, called Barabbas. 17Therefore when they were gathered together, Pilate said unto them, Whom will ye that I release unto you? Barabbas, or Jesus which is called Christ? 18For he knew that for envy they had delivered him. 19When he was set down on the judgment seat, his wife sent unto him, saying, Have thou nothing to do with that just man: for I have suffered many things this day in a dream because of him. 20But the chief priests and elders persuaded the multitude that they should ask Barabbas, and destroy Jesus. 21The governor answered and said unto them, Whether of the twain will ye that I release unto you? They said, Barabbas. 22Pilate saith unto them, What shall I do then with Jesus which is called Christ? They all say unto him, Let him be crucified. 23And the governor said, Why, what evil hath he done? But they cried out the more, saying, Let him be crucified. 24When Pilate saw that he could prevail nothing, but that rather a tumult was made, he took water, and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, I am innocent of the blood of this just person: see ye to it. 25Then answered all the people, and said, His blood be on us, and on our children. 26Then released he Barabbas unto them: and when he had scourged Jesus, he delivered him to be crucified. 27Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the common hall, and gathered unto him the whole band of soldiers. (Matthew 27:2‑27); Luke 3:11Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of Iturea and of the region of Trachonitis, and Lysanias the tetrarch of Abilene, (Luke 3:1); to Felix the governor, Acts 23:24-36; and to Cyrenius, governor of Syria. Luke 2:22(And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) (Luke 2:2). 2. ἐθνάρχης, “governor of a people.” The Romans gave such the title of Pretor, Procurator or Ethnarch. 2 Cor. 11:3232In Damascus the governor under Aretas the king kept the city of the Damascenes with a garrison, desirous to apprehend me: (2 Corinthians 11:32).
Grapes, ripe
1. A symbol of apostates ready for judgment. Rev. 14:1818And another angel came out from the altar, which had power over fire; and cried with a loud cry to him that had the sharp sickle, saying, Thrust in thy sharp sickle, and gather the clusters of the vine of the earth; for her grapes are fully ripe. (Revelation 14:18).
2. A symbol of moral fruit for God. Isa. 5:1-71Now will I sing to my wellbeloved a song of my beloved touching his vineyard. My wellbeloved hath a vineyard in a very fruitful hill: 2And he fenced it, and gathered out the stones thereof, and planted it with the choicest vine, and built a tower in the midst of it, and also made a winepress therein: and he looked that it should bring forth grapes, and it brought forth wild grapes. 3And now, O inhabitants of Jerusalem, and men of Judah, judge, I pray you, betwixt me and my vineyard. 4What could have been done more to my vineyard, that I have not done in it? wherefore, when I looked that it should bring forth grapes, brought it forth wild grapes? 5And now go to; I will tell you what I will do to my vineyard: I will take away the hedge thereof, and it shall be eaten up; and break down the wall thereof, and it shall be trodden down: 6And I will lay it waste: it shall not be pruned, nor digged; but there shall come up briers and thorns: I will also command the clouds that they rain no rain upon it. 7For the vineyard of the Lord of hosts is the house of Israel, and the men of Judah his pleasant plant: and he looked for judgment, but behold oppression; for righteousness, but behold a cry. (Isaiah 5:1‑7).
Grass. The grasses of Israel are more numerous than in any other country.
1. A symbol of prosperity of a temporary character, of what is transitory and perishable. James 1:10-1110But the rich, in that he is made low: because as the flower of the grass he shall pass away. 11For the sun is no sooner risen with a burning heat, but it withereth the grass, and the flower thereof falleth, and the grace of the fashion of it perisheth: so also shall the rich man fade away in his ways. (James 1:10‑11); Rev. 8:77The first angel sounded, and there followed hail and fire mingled with blood, and they were cast upon the earth: and the third part of trees was burnt up, and all green grass was burnt up. (Revelation 8:7); Isa. 40:6-76The voice said, Cry. And he said, What shall I cry? All flesh is grass, and all the goodliness thereof is as the flower of the field: 7The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: because the spirit of the Lord bloweth upon it: surely the people is grass. (Isaiah 40:6‑7); 1 Peter 1:2424For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away: (1 Peter 1:24).
2. Symbol of  human frailty. James 1:10-1110But the rich, in that he is made low: because as the flower of the grass he shall pass away. 11For the sun is no sooner risen with a burning heat, but it withereth the grass, and the flower thereof falleth, and the grace of the fashion of it perisheth: so also shall the rich man fade away in his ways. (James 1:10‑11); 1 Peter 1:2424For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away: (1 Peter 1:24); Isa. 40:77The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: because the spirit of the Lord bloweth upon it: surely the people is grass. (Isaiah 40:7).
Grave {See Sepulchres, Tombs and Burials in Bible Subjects}
Greaves leg armour. 1 Sam. 17:6.
Grecian Ελληνιστής Greek-speaking Jews, and should not be confounded with Gentile Greeks (Acts 6:1, 9:29; 11:2020And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when they were come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus. (Acts 11:20)), but in the last passage the Editors read “Greeks.”
Greyhound This word only occurs once in the Bible and the margin which explains the meaning of the word as “girt in the loins,” also says it is the “horse.” A fleet animal is no doubt referred to. Prov. 30:3131A greyhound; an he goat also; and a king, against whom there is no rising up. (Proverbs 30:31).