### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **gaʼăyôwn**, represented by `{{H1349}}`, means **haughty; proud**. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. It is derived from the word גָּאָה, indicating a sense of loftiness or arrogance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H1349}}` is in [[Psalms 123:4]], where it is used to describe the source of the psalmist's distress. The verse states, "Our soul is exceedingly filled with the scorning of those that are at ease, and with the contempt of the **proud**." In this context, the word contributes to a powerful image of a soul overwhelmed by the derision and disdain of arrogant individuals. It is part of a complex description of those who are not only proud but also contemptuous and oppressively at ease.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the biblical concept of pride:
* `{{H1343}}` **gêʼeh** (lofty; figuratively, arrogant; proud): This term is frequently used to describe those who exalt themselves. It often appears in contexts where God is shown to oppose them, as the Lord promises to "destroy the house of the **proud**" [[Proverbs 15:25]].
* `{{H3238}}` **yânâh** (to rage or be violent; by implication, to suppress, to maltreat; proud, vex): This word links the attitude of pride with the action of oppression. It is used in commands against mistreating others, such as "ye shall not **oppress** one another" [[Leviticus 25:17]].
* `{{H7600}}` **shaʼănân** (secure; in a bad sense, haughty; that is at ease): This term describes a smug security that often accompanies pride. It is used in a warning: "Woe to them that are **at ease** in Zion" [[Amos 6:1]], highlighting the danger of such complacency.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1349}}` is found in its contribution to the Bible's condemnation of arrogance.
* **Source of Suffering:** The word's only use in [[Psalms 123:4]] identifies pride as a direct cause of suffering for the righteous. The soul `{{H5315}}` of the faithful is "exceedingly `{{H7227}}` filled `{{H7646}}`" with the scorn `{{H3933}}` and contempt `{{H937}}` that originates from the proud.
* **Target of Divine Judgment:** The broader scriptural context shows that God actively opposes the proud. He is called upon to "render a reward to the **proud**" [[Psalms 94:2]], and the Day of the Lord is prophesied to be upon "every one that is **proud** and lofty" [[Isaiah 2:12]].
* **Pride Manifested as Contempt:** `{{H1349}}` is used alongside contempt `{{H937}}` and scorning `{{H3933}}`, demonstrating that biblical pride is not merely an internal feeling but an outward expression of disdain that afflicts others.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H1349}}` **gaʼăyôwn** appears only once, its use in [[Psalms 123:4]] provides a sharp depiction of pride. It is presented as a haughty quality that fuels contempt and scorn, causing deep anguish to the soul of the righteous. When viewed alongside related terms, it reinforces the consistent biblical theme that pride, especially when expressed as oppression or smug disdain for others, stands in direct opposition to the character and judgment of God.
TRV