רִיב
Properly, to toss , i.e. grapple ; mostly figuratively, to wrangle , i.e. hold a controversy ; (by implication) to defend
Reading a lexicon entry
What this page is: Each lexicon entry shows the original Hebrew or Greek word behind the English translation: its meaning, its range of use, and where it appears in Scripture.
Strong's number: The Strong's code (H- or G-) is the standard reference number for this word. It connects this entry to chapter and passage language tabs.
Canonical witness: The witness passages show where this word is used in context. Click any to open the study page for that passage.
These lexicon entries are being actively developed. If you notice missing content, incorrect definitions, or have suggestions, we'd love to hear from you. Share a note on our Connect page and include a screenshot if helpful.
What does רִיב (riv) mean in the Bible?
רִיב (riv) is a Hebrew word meaning "properly, to toss , i.e. grapple ; mostly figuratively, to wrangle , i.e. hold a controversy ; (by implication) to defend". properly, to toss, i. Nehemiah’s contention reflects covenant defense rather than personal hostility. This term runs through the canonical themes of Covenant, Justice.
Meaning
Escalation from physical grappling to legal/verbal dispute; often frames God's covenant lawsuit against Israel's unfaithfulness
properly, to toss, i.e. grapple; mostly figuratively, to wrangle, i.e. hold a controversy; (by implication) to defend BDB: strive Usage: adversary, chide, complain, contend, debate, × ever, × lay wait, plead, rebuke, strive, × thoroughly.
Why This Word Matters
Nehemiah’s contention reflects covenant defense rather than personal hostility. Hosea 2:2-13
It frames the passage as a formal covenant lawsuit, not mere emotional complaint. Micah 6:1-5
Signals formal covenant lawsuit structure. Nehemiah 13:23-31
Grammatical Forms
How the stem changes the meaning of this verb across the biblical text.
Qal basic active stem — the word in its most common, direct sense 35×
Canonical Themes
Biblical Occurrences
Each occurrence shows the passage reference, the original language term as it appears in that context, its transliteration, and the contextual sense.
Old Testament Witnesses
Showing 8 of 70 occurrences in the biblical text.
Appears In
Compound and idiomatic lexemes in which this word is a constituent. Follow a link to study the phrase and its other participating words.