The Greek word klínō, represented by G2827, is a primary verb meaning to slant or slope. It appears 7 times across 7 unique verses in the Bible. Its literal sense of inclining or reclining is applied in a variety of contexts, both literal and figurative, including to bow down, to describe a day as far spent or wearing away, to lay one's head, or to turn to flight an enemy.
In its biblical usage, G2827 often describes a physical posture of submission or rest. At the empty tomb, the women were afraid and bowed down their faces to the earth Luke 24:5. In a statement of his own homelessness, Jesus explains that the Son of man has nowhere to lay his head (Matthew 8:20, Luke 9:58). Most significantly, at the moment of his death, Jesus bowed his head and gave up the ghost, signifying the completion of his earthly work John 19:30. The word is also used to mark the passage of time, as when a day begins to wear away or is far spent (Luke 9:12, Luke 24:29).
Several related words provide context for the actions described by G2827:
- G2776 kephalḗ (head): This is the object being bowed or laid down in several key verses. It is used both for the physical head of a person John 19:30 and figuratively for Christ as the head of the church Colossians 1:18.
- G1719 émphobos (in fear, i.e. alarmed): This word describes the emotional state that prompted the physical act of bowing. The women at the tomb were afraid Luke 24:5 in the presence of the angels. This same word is used when the remnant was affrighted after the great earthquake Revelation 11:13.
- G3306 ménō (to stay... abide, continue, dwell): This word is used in response to the day being "far spent" G2827. The disciples urge Jesus to abide with them as evening approaches Luke 24:29, highlighting a desire for permanence and presence as time passes.
The theological significance of G2827 is expressed through its diverse applications.
- Submission and Completion: The act of bowing the head signifies submission. Jesus' final action to bow his head on the cross represents his willing submission to the Father's plan and the completion of his atoning sacrifice John 19:30. The women bowing their faces shows reverence and fear before divine messengers Luke 24:5.
- The Urgency of Time: The description of a day as far spent or wearing away Luke 24:29 creates a sense of temporal finality and urgency. This passing of time prompts the disciples to seek fellowship and provision, reminding believers of the transient nature of earthly moments.
- Divine Power in Weakness: In Hebrews, the faithful "were made strong" G1743 and were able to turn to flight the armies of aliens Hebrews 11:34. Here, G2827 illustrates a powerful reversal where God's strength, not human might, causes powerful enemies to incline and flee.
In summary, G2827 moves beyond a simple definition of sloping or inclining. It is a verb that captures profound moments of submission, the fleeting nature of time, and the execution of divine power. From the final, voluntary bow of Christ's head John 19:30 to the routing of armies by faith Hebrews 11:34, klínō demonstrates how a single action can convey reverence, completion, and the turning of tides through the power of God.
TRV