### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **kilyâh**, represented by `{{H3629}}`, refers to a **kidney** or **reins**. It appears 31 times across 26 unique verses in the Bible. While it literally denotes the physical organ, it is often used figuratively to represent the **mind** or the innermost self, the seat of emotions and conscience.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its literal sense, `{{H3629}}` is frequently mentioned in the context of sacrificial offerings. The law specified that the **two kidneys** and the fat surrounding them were to be taken from the animal and burned upon the altar, signifying that the richest and most vital parts were dedicated to God [[Exodus 29:13]]. Figuratively, it denotes the deepest part of a person's being, often paired with the heart to encompass the whole of the inner life. This is the place of deep feeling, as when the psalmist's heart was grieved and he was "pricked" in his **reins** [[Psalms 73:21]], and the place of profound longing, where Job's **reins** are "consumed within me" [[Job 19:27]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{H3629}}`:
* `{{H3820}}` **lêb** (heart): Frequently used alongside **kilyâh** to describe the entirety of a person's inner being, including feelings, will, and intellect. God is described as one who tries the **reins** and the **heart** [[Jeremiah 11:20]].
* `{{H974}}` **bâchan** (to test, investigate): This word describes God's action of examining the **reins**. The Lord searches the heart and tries the **reins** to render judgment according to a person's deeds [[Jeremiah 17:10]].
* `{{H2459}}` **cheleb** (fat, richest part): In sacrificial law, the **kidneys** are almost always mentioned with the **fat**, the choice part of the animal to be offered to the Lord [[Leviticus 3:4]].
* `{{H3256}}` **yâçar** (to instruct, correct): The **reins** are depicted as a source of inner guidance. The psalmist blesses the Lord for giving him counsel, noting his **reins** also **instruct** him in the night [[Psalms 16:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H3629}}` centers on God's relationship with the inner person.
* **Divine Scrutiny:** God's examination of the **reins** is a recurring theme, highlighting His omniscience. He is a righteous God who "trieth the hearts and **reins**" [[Psalms 7:9]], demonstrating that He judges not only external actions but the deepest motives and hidden thoughts.
* **The Seat of Conscience:** The **reins** function as the conscience, providing internal instruction and moral guidance [[Psalms 16:7]]. They are also the source of emotional responses, able to "rejoice" when hearing right things [[Proverbs 23:16]].
* **Symbol of True Worship:** The literal offering of the **kidneys** in sacrifice [[Leviticus 9:10]] serves as a physical picture of a deeper spiritual truth: that true worship involves surrendering one's innermost being—the will, emotions, and thoughts—completely to God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3629}}` is a word with rich dual meaning. It moves from its literal anatomical role in the sacrificial system to a profound figurative symbol for the core of human identity. By representing the innermost thoughts and feelings, **kilyâh** underscores the biblical truth that God sees and cares about the hidden depths of the human spirit, which He alone can truly **search** `{{H2713}}` and **try** `{{H974}}`.
TRV