### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kýptō**, represented by `{{G2955}}`, describes the physical act "to bend forward" or to **stoop** down. Based on the term κῦμα, its root suggests a bending or arching motion. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, making each occurrence particularly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G2955}}` denotes a posture of humility or a deliberate, thoughtful action. Two of its three appearances are in the Gospel of John, where Jesus **stooped** down to write on the ground when confronted by those who were tempting him [[John 8:6]]. He repeats this specific action a moment later [[John 8:8]], using the posture to redirect a tense confrontation. The other instance is in Mark's gospel, where John the Baptist expresses his unworthiness, stating he is not fit to **stoop down** and unloose the sandals of the one coming after him [[Mark 1:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to clarify the context and meaning of `{{G2955}}`:
* `{{G2736}}` **kátō**: This adverb means **downwards** or **beneath**. It is used directly with **kýptō** to emphasize the motion, as when Jesus "stooped **down**" to write on the ground [[John 8:6]].
* `{{G3089}}` **lýō**: Meaning to **loosen** or unloose, this verb describes the action that would follow the posture of stooping in John the Baptist's statement. He feels unworthy to perform the humble task to "stoop down and **unloose**" the Messiah's sandals [[Mark 1:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2955}}` is seen in the contexts where this simple physical action occurs.
* **A Posture of Humility:** The act of stooping is presented as a gesture of a servant. John the Baptist's declaration that he is unworthy to **stoop down** highlights the supreme status of the Messiah he precedes [[Mark 1:7]].
* **A Deliberate Response to Conflict:** Jesus twice adopts this posture in a moment of intense accusation. His stooping serves as a non-confrontational response that pauses the event and shifts the focus away from the accusers and onto his quiet action of writing on the ground ([[John 8:6]], [[John 8:8]]).
* **Connecting with the Earth:** In both instances in John's gospel, the act of stooping is for the purpose of writing on the ground, creating a direct physical connection between Jesus and the earth during a moment of profound moral and spiritual judgment.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2955}}` is a specific verb describing a physical posture. Though used rarely, its appearances are memorable. It powerfully illustrates a servant's humility in the words of John the Baptist and a quiet, authoritative deflection of conflict in the actions of Jesus. The simple act of bending forward carries significant meaning, symbolizing both servitude and quiet authority.
TRV