### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **kâbôwd**, represented by `{{H3519}}`, is a significant term for **glory** and **honour**. It appears 200 times across 189 unique verses in the Bible. Derived from a root meaning "to be heavy" `{{H3513}}`, **kâbôwd** properly signifies weight, but is used figuratively to convey splendor, copiousness, and honor.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3519}}` is used to describe both divine majesty and human dignity. The heavens are said to declare the **glory** of God [[Psalms 19:1]], and this **glory** is a tangible presence that filled the tabernacle [[Exodus 40:34]] and the temple [[2 Chronicles 7:1]]. The LORD is called the "King of **glory**" [[Psalms 24:7]], and He states that He will not give His **glory** to another [[Isaiah 42:8]]. As a human attribute, **honour** is contrasted with pride [[Proverbs 29:23]] and is presented as a reward for humility and righteousness ([[Proverbs 22:4]], [[Proverbs 21:21]]). God is the source of this **honour**, giving it along with riches [[1 Chronicles 29:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concepts of glory, honor, and weightiness:
* `{{H3513}}` **kâbad**: As the primitive root, this word means **to be heavy** or, in a good sense, **honorable**. It is used for the act of honoring, such as a son who **honoureth** his father, which provides the basis for God asking where His own **honour** is [[Malachi 1:6]].
* `{{H1346}}` **gaʼăvâh** (arrogance, pride): This term is often set in opposition to `{{H3519}}`. For instance, a man's **pride** brings him low, while honour upholds the humble [[Proverbs 29:23]].
* `{{H1926}}` **hâdâr** (honour, majesty): Often used alongside `{{H3519}}` to describe divine or human splendor. Man is described as being crowned with **glory** and **honour** [[Psalms 8:5]].
* `{{H8597}}` **tiphʼârâh** (beauty, glory): This word emphasizes splendor and ornament. The holy garments for Aaron were made for **glory** and for **beauty** [[Exodus 28:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3519}}` is immense, touching on God's nature, His presence, and His relationship with humanity.
* **The Manifest Presence of God:** **Glory** is often depicted as the visible and tangible presence of the LORD. It filled the tabernacle as a cloud [[Exodus 40:34]], will be a wall of fire around His people [[Zechariah 2:5]], and its rising is associated with **light** `{{H216}}` [[Isaiah 60:1]]. The entire earth is described as full of His **glory** [[Isaiah 6:3]].
* **Ascription of Worth:** Scripture repeatedly calls for humanity to give **glory** to the LORD ([[Psalms 29:2]], [[1 Chronicles 16:28]]), an act of acknowledging His supreme value and weight. This is an essential component of worship and is tied to praising His name [[Psalms 66:2]].
* **A Divine Attribute and a Human Blessing:** While **glory** is an intrinsic attribute of God that He will not share [[Isaiah 48:11]], it is also a blessing He bestows. The LORD gives both grace and **glory** [[Psalms 84:11]]. For believers, God is their **glory** and the lifter of their head [[Psalms 3:3]], and following righteousness leads to life and **honour** [[Proverbs 21:21]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3519}}` moves from its root meaning of "weight" to represent the immense **splendor** and **honour** of God. It is both the visible manifestation of His presence filling the heavens and the earth ([[Psalms 19:1]], [[Habakkuk 2:14]]) and the dignity He bestows upon those who are humble and righteous [[Proverbs 22:4]]. From the **glory** that fills the temple to the **honour** that is a reward for a life of wisdom, **kâbôwd** is a cornerstone for understanding divine majesty and its reflection in the created order.
TRV