### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
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.
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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