from a compound of κατά and perhaps a derivative of the base of φαίνω (meaning downcast in look); demureness, i.e. (by implication) sadness:--heaviness.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **katḗpheia**, represented by `{{G2726}}`, denotes **heaviness**. Its base definition points to a "downcast in look," which by implication means sadness or demureness. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical occurrence of `{{G2726}}` is found in [[James 4:9]], which gives a series of commands: "Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to **heaviness**." Here, **heaviness** is the intended result of a spiritual transformation. It is not a passive emotion but an active posture of repentance, where superficial joy is purposefully replaced with a profound and sober sadness.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the immediate context of [[James 4:9]] illuminate the meaning of `{{G2726}}`:
* `{{G5003}}` **talaipōréō** (be afflicted): This is the initial command, meaning "to be wretched, i.e. realize one's own misery," which sets the tone for the required repentance.
* `{{G3996}}` **penthéō** (mourn): Paired with "weep," this word means "to grieve (the feeling or the act)," highlighting the active expression of sorrow.
* `{{G3997}}` **pénthos** (mourning): This is the state that replaces laughter, defined as "grief." Its use shows a complete reversal of emotion.
* `{{G5479}}` **chará** (joy): This term for "cheerfulness, i.e. calm delight" is explicitly what must be turned into "heaviness," creating a stark contrast between worldly pleasure and godly sorrow.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2726}}` is concentrated entirely within its sole appearance.
* **An Element of Repentance:** In [[James 4:9]], "heaviness" is presented as a crucial part of the process of turning to God. It is commanded alongside affliction, mourning, and weeping.
* **Contrast to Worldly Joy:** The word is defined by what it replaces. Laughter is turned to mourning, and joy is turned to heaviness, indicating that this is a sorrow that displaces misplaced or superficial happiness.
* **An Attitude of Sobriety:** The root meaning of a "downcast in look" implies that this heaviness is an outward reflection of an inner state of humility and seriousness before God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2726}}` is a precise and potent term for **heaviness**. Though used only once, its context in [[James 4:9]] gives it significant theological depth. It represents a specific kind of sadness—a sober, downcast, and demure disposition—that is commanded as the proper response for those turning away from worldly attitudes and back toward God. It is not merely an emotion but a vital component of heartfelt repentance.
TRV