### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **klaíō**, represented by `{{G2799}}`, is defined as to sob or wail aloud, in contrast to crying silently. It appears **41 times** across **34 unique verses** in the Bible. This term captures a deep and audible expression of emotion, ranging from intense grief to profound repentance, and is used to describe both human and divine responses to sorrow and loss.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2799}}` is used in several key contexts. It signifies mourning over death, as when the widows **wept** for Dorcas [[Acts 9:39]] or when Jesus **wept** over the city of Jerusalem [[Luke 19:41]]. The word also portrays the deep sorrow of repentance, most notably when Peter went out and **wept** bitterly after denying Christ [[Matthew 26:75]]. Furthermore, it is used in prophetic warnings, where kings and merchants are said to **bewail** the fall of Babylon [[Revelation 18:9]], and the rich are instructed to **weep** for the miseries that will come upon them [[James 5:1]]. Jesus also uses the term in commands, telling a grieving widow "Weep not" before raising her son [[Luke 7:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of sorrow and its expression:
* `{{G2805}}` **klauthmós** (lamentation): This noun form is directly derived from `{{G2799}}` and describes the act of wailing or weeping. It appears alongside it in the description of Rachel's grief [[Matthew 2:18]].
* `{{G3996}}` **penthéō** (to grieve): Often paired with `{{G2799}}`, this word refers to the feeling or act of mourning. It is contrasted with laughter in a warning of future sorrow [[Luke 6:25]].
* `{{G1070}}` **geláō** (to laugh): This word serves as the direct opposite of weeping. Scripture promises a reversal where those who **weep** now will later **laugh** [[Luke 6:21]].
* `{{G1144}}` **dákry** (a tear): This term denotes the physical product of weeping. A woman washes Jesus's feet with her **tears** while **weeping** behind him [[Luke 7:38]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2799}}` is significant, highlighting different facets of the spiritual life.
* **Sign of Repentance:** The act of weeping is closely tied to sincere repentance. Peter’s bitter weeping demonstrates profound remorse for his denial [[Luke 22:62]], and believers are called to **weep** and mourn as a sign of turning from sin [[James 4:9]].
* **Expression of Divine Compassion:** Jesus's own weeping reveals His deep compassion and empathy for human suffering. He **wept** upon seeing the grief of others [[John 11:33]] and in anticipation of Jerusalem's destruction [[Luke 19:41]].
* **A Temporary State for the Faithful:** Weeping is presented as a temporary condition for believers. Jesus promises that those who **weep** now will laugh in the future [[Luke 6:21]], and that their sorrow will be turned into joy [[John 16:20]].
* **Consequence of Judgment:** For the unrepentant, weeping is a sign of judgment. It is the response of those who lose everything in the fall of "Babylon" [[Revelation 18:11]] and the fate of those who reject God's ways [[Luke 6:25]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2799}}` is far more than a simple word for crying. It is a powerful descriptor of audible, heartfelt sorrow that encompasses human grief, godly repentance, and divine compassion. It serves as a motif that contrasts present suffering with future joy for the righteous, while also signaling the lament that accompanies divine judgment. The word vividly portrays the depth of emotion central to the human experience and its role in one's relationship with God.
TRV