or (by intermixture with עָנִי) עָנָיו; from עָנָה; depressed (figuratively), in mind (gentle) or circumstances (needy, especially saintly); humble, lowly, meek, poor. Compare עָנִי.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻânâv**, represented by `{{H6035}}`, describes those who are **depressed** in mind or circumstances. It appears **26 times** across **24 unique verses** and carries the meaning of being gentle, needy, humble, lowly, meek, or poor, often in a saintly context. This term defines a state of being that is both circumstantial and spiritual, indicating a reliance on God rather than self.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H6035}}` identifies a group of people who are the special objects of God's favor and attention. They are promised divine guidance, with the Lord guiding the **meek** in judgment and teaching them His way [[Psalms 25:9]]. This quality is not weakness but a profound spiritual state, exemplified by Moses, who was described as very **meek** above all other men [[Numbers 12:3]]. The Lord is portrayed as one who hears the desire of the **humble** [[Psalms 10:17]], lifts them up [[Psalms 147:6]], and beautifies them with salvation [[Psalms 149:4]]. Conversely, the **meek** are often contrasted with the wicked and proud, who face God's judgment [[Isaiah 11:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{H6035}}`:
* `{{H6041}}` **ʻânîy** (poor): A closely related term for the afflicted, humble, or needy. It is often used alongside `{{H6035}}` to emphasize a state of both material and spiritual poverty, such as being of a humble spirit with the **lowly** [[Proverbs 16:19]].
* `{{H6038}}` **ʻănâvâh** (meekness): The noun form, representing the quality of gentleness and humility. Believers are commanded to seek **meekness** along with righteousness as a path to being hidden from the Lord's anger [[Zephaniah 2:3]].
* `{{H3423}}` **yârash** (inherit): This word for possessing or inheriting is a key promise to the meek. The meek are promised they shall **inherit** the earth and find delight in peace [[Psalms 37:11]].
* `{{H7965}}` **shâlôwm** (peace): The state of welfare, health, and prosperity that the meek will enjoy in abundance when they inherit the earth [[Psalms 37:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6035}}` is profound, highlighting a core principle of God's kingdom.
* **Divine Favor:** The **humble** and **meek** are consistently shown to be recipients of God's grace [[Proverbs 3:34]] and pleasure [[Psalms 149:4]]. Their cries are not forgotten by God [[Psalms 9:12]], and their expectation will not perish [[Psalms 9:18]].
* **A Condition for Blessing:** Being **meek** is presented as a prerequisite for receiving God’s blessings. The meek will have their joy increased in the Lord [[Isaiah 29:19]], they will eat and be satisfied [[Psalms 22:26]], and their hearts will live forever [[Psalms 69:32]].
* **Messianic Mission:** The anointing of the Messiah has a specific focus on the **meek**. The Spirit of the Lord is upon him to preach good tidings to the **meek** and to bind up the brokenhearted [[Isaiah 61:1]].
* **Contrast with Pride:** The state of being **lowly** is the direct opposite of the proud and arrogant, who are destined for judgment. The Lord lifts up the meek but casts the wicked to the ground [[Psalms 147:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6035}}` defines a person whose circumstances or spirit cause them to depend wholly on God. This state of being, whether translated as **meek**, **humble**, or **lowly**, is not a sign of weakness but a posture that invites divine intervention. From the character of Moses to the focus of messianic prophecy, the **ʻânâv** are consistently portrayed as those who receive God's guidance, salvation, and ultimate inheritance.
TRV