### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **kâphaph**, represented by `{{H3721}}`, is a primitive root that means **to curve or bow down (self)**. Though it appears only **5 times** in **5 unique verses**, it captures a potent image of being physically or spiritually lowered. The word describes a state of being bent, either from external distress or as a willful act of submission or worship.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3721}}` is used to illustrate different states of being. It can describe the anguish of a soul under threat, as the psalmist's soul is **bowed down** by the schemes of his enemies [[Psalms 57:6]]. In a different context, it represents an act of reverence and worship, as when the prophet Micah asks how he should **bow** himself before the high God [[Micah 6:6]]. However, the term is also used to critique empty religious gestures, such as when Isaiah asks if a true fast is merely to **bow down** one's head like a bulrush without genuine affliction of the soul [[Isaiah 58:5]]. In the Psalms, this posture of being **bowed down** is met with divine action, as the LORD is the one who "raiseth them that are bowed down" [[Psalms 146:8]] and "raiseth up all those that be bowed down" [[Psalms 145:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context surrounding the act of being bowed down:
* `{{H2210}}` **zâqaph** (raise (up)): This word acts as a direct counterpart to `{{H3721}}`. It is used to describe the LORD's specific action of lifting or comforting those who are **bowed down**, highlighting His restorative power ([[Psalms 145:14]], [[Psalms 146:8]]).
* `{{H5564}}` **çâmak** (sustain): This word signifies support and upholding. The LORD not only raises the bowed down but also "upholdeth all that fall" [[Psalms 145:14]]. It describes a continuous action of support that remedies a fallen state.
* `{{H6031}}` **ʻânâh** (humble (self), afflict): This term is linked to the internal state that should accompany the external act of bowing. A true fast involves a person choosing to **afflict** his soul, not just to **bow down** his head [[Isaiah 58:5]], contrasting genuine humility with outward performance.
* `{{H6491}}` **pâqach** (open): This word is used in parallel with God's action of raising the bowed down. Just as the LORD **openeth** the eyes of the blind, He "raiseth them that are bowed down" [[Psalms 146:8]], linking physical and spiritual restoration.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3721}}` is seen in its portrayal of the relationship between human weakness and divine strength.
* **The State of the Humbled:** To be "bowed down" is to be in a state of lowliness, whether from oppression [[Psalms 57:6]], a posture of worship [[Micah 6:6]], or personal affliction. It represents a physical and spiritual position of need.
* **God's Response to the Lowly:** A central theological point is that God actively intervenes on behalf of those who are bowed down. The LORD is identified as the one who "raiseth up" `{{H2210}}` the humbled, demonstrating His compassion and power ([[Psalms 145:14]], [[Psalms 146:8]]). This act is paired with His work of upholding `{{H5564}}` those who fall.
* **Authentic Worship:** The use of `{{H3721}}` in [[Isaiah 58:5]] serves as a powerful theological critique. It distinguishes between external religious ritual—merely bowing the head—and the true, internal act of humbling or afflicting `{{H6031}}` the soul, which is what God desires.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3721}}` **kâphaph** is more than a simple description of posture. It encapsulates a state of being brought low, whether by circumstance, in worship, or as an empty gesture. Its most significant application is in the Psalms, where being **bowed down** is the prerequisite for experiencing God's uplifting and sustaining power ([[Psalms 145:14]], [[Psalms 146:8]]). The word illustrates the profound biblical theme that God notices and raises the humble, while also cautioning that the outward act of bowing is meaningless without a corresponding internal reality [[Isaiah 58:5]].
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