And you are building to yourself an arched vault,7 and you are making to yourself an exalted height within every broadway!8
גב - architectural elevated arch/vault or convex shape
Footnote:
Eze. 16:24
The Hebrew noun גב primarily denotes a convex or elevated feature, with literal applications to the back of a person, the boss of a shield, or a raised surface. Classical commentators note that in Ezekiel 16:24, גֶב may refer to small arched or vaulted structures:
Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges observes that גֶב is “something elevated and probably arched,” marginally rendered in the Revised Version as “vaulted chamber.” These were small shrines or elevated places installed in streets or at crossroads, figuratively representing idolatry rather than literal prostitution (cf. Jeremiah 2:20; 3:2).
Pulpit Commentary emphasizes the arch or vault sense, linking it to the LXX οἵκημα πορνικόν and Vulgate lupanar, reflecting usage in prostitution. Historical parallels in Roman and Syrian cultic contexts suggest continuity from Eastern ritual practices.
Ellicott’s Commentary agrees that the word literally denotes arches or vaulted rooms, used in connection with idolatry and sexual immorality, extending to a figurative meaning of unfaithfulness to God.
Summary of semantic range of גֶב:
Anatomical / convex form: back, dorsal surface, boss of shield.
Architectural: arched or vaulted feature, small shrine or niche.
Figurative: elevated or prominent place associated with idolatry and ritualized sexual immorality.
