from כָּרַע; the leg (from the knee to the ankle) of men or locusts (only in the dual); leg.
Transliteration:kârâʻ
Pronunciation:kaw-raw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term H3767 (כָּרָע, kârâʻ) refers specifically to the "leg" or "legs," particularly the portion from the knee to the ankle. Its definition emphasizes its use only in the dual form, implying a pair of legs. The etymological root of H3767 is `{{H3766}}` (kâraʻ), a verb meaning "to bow," "to kneel," or "to crouch." This derivation is significant, as it identifies the *kârâʻ* as the very part of the anatomy designed for bending and kneeling. The semantic range is quite narrow, applying exclusively to the legs of humans or certain insects, notably locusts, highlighting a precise anatomical distinction within the biblical text.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word H3767 appears only twice in the Hebrew Bible, each instance providing a distinct and illuminating context for its meaning:
1. **Human Context:** In [[2 Samuel 4:4]], the term describes Mephibosheth, Jonathan's son: "Now Jonathan, Saul's son, had a son who was lame in his *legs* (כָּרָעָיו)." Here, the plural form *kârâʻâw* (his legs) is used. The context is tragic, detailing Mephibosheth's physical disability, which resulted from a fall when he was a child. The specific mention of his legs being lame underscores his vulnerability and physical impairment, which profoundly impacted his life and status within ancient society. This instance highlights the physical reality of human frailty and the consequences of unforeseen events.
2. **Zoological/Dietary Context:** In [[Leviticus 11:21]], the term is used in the context of dietary laws concerning clean and unclean insects: "Nevertheless, these you may eat of every flying insect that goes on all fours, which have *legs* (כְּרָעַיִם) above their feet to leap withal upon the earth." Here, *kĕrāʻayim* (legs) refers to the distinct, powerful hind legs of certain insects, such as locusts, which enable them to jump. The presence of these specific leaping legs is the determining factor for their permissibility as food. This usage demonstrates the meticulous detail of God's law, distinguishing between creatures based on specific anatomical features for the purpose of ritual purity and dietary guidelines.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word is the verbal root `{{H3766}}` (kâraʻ), "to bow down" or "to kneel." The noun H3767 is the physical instrument by which one bows or kneels. This connection is not merely etymological but functional, as the legs are essential for acts of prostration, submission, and worship.
Other related concepts include:
* **Anatomy and Physiology:** The word contributes to the biblical understanding of the body, emphasizing specific parts and their functions.
* **Vulnerability and Disability:** As seen in Mephibosheth's case, the term highlights physical limitations and suffering.
* **Purity and Distinction:** In Leviticus, H3767 is a key descriptor in the divine classification of creation, underscoring the principles of holiness and separation within the Mosaic Law.
* **Movement and Action:** The "leaping" function of insect legs in Leviticus points to the dynamic capabilities endowed by creation.
### Theological Significance
Though infrequent, the occurrences of H3767 carry significant theological weight:
1. **Divine Order and Creation:** The precise description of insect anatomy in [[Leviticus 11:21]] reflects God's meticulous design of creation. Every detail, even the specific structure of an insect's legs, is part of a divine order that dictates human interaction with the created world, particularly concerning dietary laws. This underscores the sovereignty of God over all life and the intentionality behind His commands for holiness.
2. **Human Vulnerability and Dependence:** Mephibosheth's lameness in his legs ([[2 Samuel 4:4]]) serves as a poignant reminder of human frailty, suffering, and dependence. It illustrates that even those of royal lineage are subject to physical limitations. The narrative of Mephibosheth's life, marked by his disability yet sustained by David's covenant loyalty, subtly points to divine grace and provision amidst human brokenness.
3. **The Instrument of Humility and Worship:** While H3767 itself denotes the physical limb, its strong connection to the verb `{{H3766}}` ("to bow down") imbues it with implicit theological significance regarding worship and submission. The legs are the means by which one can physically prostrate oneself before God, expressing humility, reverence, and adoration. Thus, even the physical components of the body are designed for and can participate in acts of worship and acknowledging divine authority.
### Summary
The Hebrew word H3767 (כָּרָע, kârâʻ) precisely denotes the leg from the knee to the ankle, always appearing in the dual form. Derived from the verb `{{H3766}}` ("to bow down"), it signifies the anatomical part designed for kneeling and bending. Its two rare occurrences in the Bible provide distinct insights: in [[2 Samuel 4:4]], it describes Mephibosheth's physical lameness, highlighting human vulnerability; in [[Leviticus 11:21]], it refers to the leaping legs of certain insects, crucial for distinguishing clean from unclean animals in dietary law. Theologically, H3767 underscores God's intricate design in creation, the reality of human frailty, and, by extension from its root, the physical means by which humility and worship are expressed before the Divine. Despite its limited usage, H3767 offers a precise lens through which to observe biblical themes of divine order, human condition, and the call to holiness.
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