Hebrew · Strong's H1471
גּוֹי
(goy)
noun, masculine
The Hebrew term goy primarily refers to a nation or people group, often with the connotation of being non-Israelite.
The Hebrew word *goy* has a broad semantic range, most commonly referring to nations or peoples. While it frequently signifies non-Israelite nations, often translated as "Gentiles" or "heathen," it can also refer to the nation of Israel itself. The context is crucial in determining whether the term carries a neutral sense of a people group or a more specific theological meaning of those outside the covenant with God. In the plural, *goyim*, it most distinctly refers to the non-Jewish nations, contrasting them with Israel, God's chosen people. The identity of these nations is often linked to their idolatry and practices contrary to God's law.
Throughout the Old Testament, the relationship between Israel and the *goyim* is a significant theme. God’s promise to Abraham included making him the father of many nations (Genesis 17:4), indicating a future beyond just the Israelite people. However, Israel was also warned against adopting the practices of the surrounding *goyim* (Deuteronomy 12:30). The prophets often spoke of God's judgment on the *goyim* for their wickedness (Obadiah 1:15), but also of a future time when many nations would turn to the Lord and worship Him (Psalm 86:9, Zechariah 2:11).
The theological weight of *goy* lies in its portrayal of both separation and eventual inclusion. While Israel was set apart from the *goyim*, the ultimate redemptive plan of God encompasses all nations. This anticipates the New Testament understanding of the inclusion of Gentiles into the people of God through faith in Christ.
Common English renderings
- Gentile
- heathen
- nation
- people
Key verses
"For the day of Jehovah is near upon all the nations: as thou hast done, it shall be done unto thee; thy dealing shall return upon thine own head."
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"and that which cometh into your mind shall not be at all, in that ye say, We will be as the nations, as the families of the countries, to serve wood and stone."
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"All nations whom thou hast made shall come and worship before thee, O Lord; And they shall glorify thy name."
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"take heed to thyself that thou be not ensnared to follow them, after that they are destroyed from before thee; and that thou inquire not after their gods, saying, How do these nations serve their gods? even so will I do likewise."
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"And many nations shall join themselves to Jehovah in that day, and shall be my people; and I will dwell in the midst of thee, and thou shalt know that Jehovah of hosts hath sent me unto thee."
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"Put them in fear, O Jehovah: Let the nations know themselves to be but men. [Selah"
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Related words