a primitive root; to dance (i.e. whirl); dance(-ing).
Transliteration:kârar
Pronunciation:kaw-rar'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew verb `{{H3769}}` (kârar) is a primitive root whose core meaning denotes rapid, circular motion, or "whirling." From this foundational sense, it extends to describe a vigorous, energetic form of dancing. Unlike more general terms for movement or play, `{{H3769}}` specifically evokes a dynamic, perhaps even frenzied, spinning or leaping action. The semantic range is narrow, focused intensely on this specific type of physical expression, often implying a lack of self-consciousness or restraint in the act.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb `{{H3769}}` appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, but its singular occurrence is profoundly significant:
* **[[2 Samuel 6:14]]**: "And David *danced* before the LORD with all his might; and David was girded with a linen ephod."
This sole occurrence describes King David's intense worship as the Ark of the Covenant was brought into Jerusalem. The phrase "danced with all his might" (בְּכָל־עֹז, *bəḵāl-ʿōz*) underscores the extreme vigor and dedication of his movement. This was not a reserved or formal dance, but an uninhibited, full-bodied expression of devotion. The detail that he was "girded with a linen ephod" is crucial; it signifies a priestly or consecrated garment, emphasizing that his dance was an act of sacred worship, not secular revelry.
The context is further illuminated by Michal's reaction in [[2 Samuel 6:16]] and [[2 Samuel 6:20-23]]. She despised David in her heart for what she perceived as an undignified display, seeing him as exposing himself like a commoner. David's response, however, reveals the true nature of his act: "It was before the LORD, who chose me instead of your father and all his house, to appoint me ruler over the LORD’s people Israel. So I will celebrate before the LORD" ([[2 Samuel 6:21]]). His dance, therefore, was an act of profound humility and fervent worship before the sovereign God, transcending human notions of royal decorum.
### Related Words & Concepts
While `{{H3769}}` is unique in its specific nuance of whirling or vigorous spinning, it resonates with other Hebrew terms describing movement, joy, and celebration, particularly in the context of worship:
* `{{H4234}}` (māḥôl): A more general term for "dance," often implying a circular or group dance, frequently associated with celebration and joy (e.g., [[Exodus 15:20]], [[Judges 11:34]]).
* `{{H6452}}` (pāzaz): Meaning "to leap" or "to spring," used in [[2 Samuel 6:16]] to describe Michal's observation of David "leaping and dancing" (מְפַזֵּז וּמְכַרְכֵּר, *məfazzēz ūməḵarkēr*), where `{{H3769}}` is used in the Piel participle (məḵarkēr). This pairing emphasizes the dynamic, leaping, and whirling nature of David's movements.
* `{{H7832}}` (śāḥaq): Meaning "to laugh," "to play," or "to frolic." While not exclusively "dance," it can encompass joyful, expressive movement, and David uses a form of this verb in his response to Michal: "I will play before the LORD" ([[2 Samuel 6:21]]).
These related terms highlight the broader biblical concept of dance as a legitimate and often fervent expression of joy, worship, and national celebration, particularly in moments of divine favor or deliverance.
### Theological Significance
The solitary appearance of `{{H3769}}` in the narrative of David's worship before the Ark of the Covenant offers a potent theological statement about the nature of true devotion.
1. **Embodied Worship:** David's "whirling" dance illustrates a profound commitment to embodied worship. It demonstrates that worship is not solely an intellectual or verbal exercise but can involve the full engagement of the physical self, expressing deep emotion and adoration.
2. **Humility and Abandon:** David's willingness to cast off royal dignity and "undignify" himself before the Lord (as Michal perceived it) speaks volumes about humility. His focus was entirely on glorifying God, not on maintaining human status or reputation. This act of abandon underscores a radical devotion that prioritizes God's pleasure above all else.
3. **Authenticity and Passion:** The vigor implied by `{{H3769}}` signifies an authentic, unreserved outpouring of the heart. It contrasts sharply with formalistic or perfunctory expressions of faith, emphasizing that worship can and should be passionate and heartfelt.
4. **Joy in God's Presence:** The return of the Ark symbolized God's presence returning to His people and capital. David's dance, therefore, is an exuberant response to the manifest presence and blessing of God, a celebration of divine favor and covenant faithfulness. It portrays joy as an essential component of worship.
5. **Prophetic Example:** David's act serves as a lasting example for believers, challenging them to consider the depth and sincerity of their own worship, encouraging a freedom and intensity in their devotion that is unconstrained by human judgment or societal norms.
### Summary
The Hebrew verb `{{H3769}}` (kârar), signifying a vigorous, whirling dance, stands as a singular yet powerful descriptor of uninhibited worship. Its sole biblical occurrence in [[2 Samuel 6:14]] vividly portrays King David's fervent, full-bodied devotion before the LORD as the Ark of the Covenant was brought to Jerusalem. This act, characterized by intense physical expression and profound humility, transcends conventional notions of decorum, highlighting the authenticity, passion, and unreserved joy that can define true worship. `{{H3769}}` thus serves as a timeless testament to the biblical call for wholehearted, embodied adoration of God, valuing His pleasure above all human opinion.
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