### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **môthen**, represented by `{{H4975}}`, refers to the waist or loins, the slender part of the back. It appears 47 times across 45 unique verses. Biblically, it signifies the center of a person's strength and is a key area for expressing readiness, mourning, or experiencing profound distress.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H4975}}` is used in several symbolic contexts. It is frequently associated with preparation for action, as seen in the command to "gird up thy **loins**" before undertaking a divine task ([[Jeremiah 1:17]], [[1 Kings 18:46]]). This readiness is also required of the Israelites during the first Passover [[Exodus 12:11]]. The loins are also a site for expressing deep grief or repentance, often by putting sackcloth upon them ([[Genesis 37:34]], [[Amos 8:10]]). In visions, the **loins** serve as a central reference point in describing the appearance of divine or angelic beings ([[Ezekiel 1:27]], [[Daniel 10:5]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the meaning and function of the loins:
* `{{H2296}}` **châgar** (to gird): This action, often performed on the loins, signifies preparation. Prophets were told to **gird** their loins before delivering a message or performing a task [[2 Kings 9:1]].
* `{{H232}}` **ʼêzôwr** (girdle): A belt worn on the loins, used both literally and symbolically. Righteousness and faithfulness are described as the **girdle** of the Messiah's loins [[Isaiah 11:5]].
* `{{H8242}}` **saq** (sackcloth): This coarse cloth was frequently put upon the loins as an outward sign of mourning and humility before God ([[1 Kings 20:31]], [[Jeremiah 48:37]]).
* `{{H2388}}` **châzaq** (to be strong): This verb is used to describe the fortification of the loins as a metaphor for gathering strength and courage in the face of conflict [[Nahum 2:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4975}}` is tied to its representation of human strength and spiritual posture.
* **Readiness for Service:** "Girding the loins" symbolizes a state of spiritual and mental preparedness to execute God's will. It represents a transition from rest to urgent, divinely-appointed action ([[Exodus 12:11]], [[2 Kings 4:29]]).
* **Strength and Vulnerability:** The loins are the seat of a person's power. God can strengthen the loins for a task [[Proverbs 31:17]] or smite the loins of one's enemies [[Deuteronomy 33:11]]. Conversely, God's judgment is shown by "loosing" the loins of kings, signifying a removal of their power and authority [[Isaiah 45:1]].
* **Expression of Emotion:** The loins are a focal point for deep emotional and spiritual states. They are where pain from terror is felt [[Nahum 2:10]], where bitterness leads to sighing [[Ezekiel 21:6]], and where the affliction of God's judgment is laid [[Psalms 66:11]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4975}}` is more than an anatomical term. It serves as a powerful biblical symbol for the core of a person's being. Whether girded for action, covered in sackcloth for mourning, or shaking in fear, the state of the loins reflects an individual's spiritual condition, strength, and posture before God.
TRV