from דָּכָא; crushed (literally powder, or figuratively, contrite); contrite, destruction.
Transliteration:dakkâʼ
Pronunciation:dak-kaw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term dakkâʼ (`{{H1793}}`) is derived from the verb daka' (`{{H1792}}`), which means "to crush," "to break in pieces," or "to oppress." Building upon this root, dakkâʼ conveys the state of being "crushed." Its semantic range extends from a literal sense of being pulverized or reduced to powder, signifying complete destruction, to a profound figurative meaning. In its figurative sense, dakkâʼ describes a spiritual state of being "contrite" or "broken-hearted." This indicates a deep inner humility, sorrow, and penitence, often arising from a profound awareness of one's sin or in response to divine discipline. Thus, the word encompasses both physical annihilation and spiritual brokenness, though its biblical usage primarily emphasizes the latter.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
dakkâʼ appears in key poetic contexts, consistently pointing to its figurative, spiritual meaning:
* In [[Psalm 34:18]], it is stated, "The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit (dakkâʼ)." Here, dakkâʼ describes a spirit that is not merely sad, but profoundly humbled and aware of its own weakness and dependency. This verse reveals God's compassionate nature, drawing near to those who are spiritually low and seeking His intervention.
* Most notably, in [[Psalm 51:17]], the psalmist declares, "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite (dakkâʼ) heart, O God, you will not despise." This powerful statement redefines acceptable worship, shifting the focus from external animal sacrifices to an internal disposition. A "contrite heart" is one that is deeply remorseful over sin, stripped of pride, and utterly reliant on God's mercy. It signifies a heart that has been "crushed" by the weight of its own sin and the realization of God's holiness, leading to genuine repentance.
While the root daka' (`{{H1792}}`) can describe literal crushing (e.g., [[Isaiah 28:28]] concerning grain), dakkâʼ (`{{H1793}}`) itself, in its limited but significant occurrences, is exclusively employed to convey this profound spiritual brokenness and humility, rather than physical destruction.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding dakkâʼ is enhanced by examining its relationship to other Hebrew terms:
* **daka' (`{{H1792}}`):** The verbal root from which dakkâʼ is derived. This verb signifies "to crush," "to break," "to oppress," or "to be humbled." It provides the foundational imagery of intense pressure and breaking.
* **shavar (`{{H7665}}`):** Meaning "to break" or "to shatter." This word is often used in conjunction with "heart" (lev `{{H3820}}`) to describe a "broken heart," as seen in [[Psalm 51:17]], where it parallels dakkâʼ.
* **anah (`{{H6035}}`):** "To be humbled" or "to be afflicted." This term frequently describes a state of self-abasement or affliction that leads to humility, sharing a thematic connection with the outcome of a dakkâʼ spirit.
* **shafal (`{{H7760}}`):** "To be low" or "to humble oneself." While also conveying humility, dakkâʼ suggests a more intense, "crushed" state than shafal.
* **lev (`{{H3820}}`):** "Heart." Crucial in [[Psalm 51:17]], where dakkâʼ modifies "heart," emphasizing the inner core of a person's being, their will, and emotions.
* **ruach (`{{H7307}}`):** "Spirit" or "wind." Important in [[Psalm 34:18]], where dakkâʼ modifies "spirit," referring to the innermost disposition or life principle.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of dakkâʼ is profound, particularly in its emphasis on spiritual brokenness:
* **Divine Proximity to the Humble:** The concept of dakkâʼ reveals a core aspect of God's character: His special affinity for those who are not proud or self-sufficient, but genuinely broken and humble. God does not despise the "crushed" but actively draws near to them ([[Psalm 34:18]]), offering salvation and comfort. This demonstrates God's compassion and mercy towards the vulnerable.
* **The Nature of True Repentance and Worship:** [[Psalm 51:17]] stands as a foundational text for understanding repentance. A "contrite heart" (dakkâʼ) is presented as the true sacrifice pleasing to God, far surpassing external rituals. This signifies that genuine worship stems from an internal state of remorse for sin, a recognition of one's unworthiness, and a humble turning towards God's grace. It is a heart that has been "crushed" by the weight of its own sin and is therefore open to divine transformation.
* **Humility as a Pathway to Grace:** The dakkâʼ spirit or heart is a prerequisite for receiving God's grace. It is a state where self-reliance and pride have been shattered, making one receptive to divine intervention, forgiveness, and restoration. This humility is not weakness but a profound strength that acknowledges God's sovereignty and one's absolute dependence on Him.
### Summary
The Hebrew word dakkâʼ (`{{H1793}}`), stemming from the root daka' (`{{H1792}}`) meaning "to crush," primarily denotes a profound spiritual state of being "contrite" or "broken-hearted." While the root can imply literal pulverization, dakkâʼ in its biblical occurrences consistently refers to an inner condition of deep humility, penitence, and a recognition of utter dependence on God. As powerfully articulated in [[Psalm 34:18]] and [[Psalm 51:17]], a dakkâʼ heart is one that God draws near to and does not despise. It represents the true spiritual sacrifice and the essential disposition for receiving divine grace and forgiveness, underscoring God's compassionate response to genuine humility and repentance.
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