### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻănâvâh**, represented by `{{H6038}}`, defines a state of **humility**, **gentleness**, or **meekness**. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. The term stems from the word for being lowly or depressed and can describe human modesty or divine clemency.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its scriptural usage, `{{H6038}}` is consistently presented as a virtue leading to exaltation and blessing. In Proverbs, it is positioned as a direct precursor to respect, with the text stating "before **honour** `{{H3519}}` is **humility** `{{H6038}}`" ([[Proverbs 15:33]], [[Proverbs 18:12]]). This concept is expanded in [[Proverbs 22:4]], which connects **humility** with the "fear of the LORD" to yield "riches, and honour, and life." In [[Zephaniah 2:3]], the "meek of the earth" are commanded to actively "seek **meekness** `{{H6038}}`," linking it to righteousness and potential deliverance from God's anger. Uniquely, the word is also used to describe a divine attribute in [[2 Samuel 22:36]], where God's "gentleness" is credited with making the speaker great.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of humility and its opposite:
* `{{H6031}}` **ʻânâh**: This is a primitive root meaning to depress, abase, afflict, or **humble** oneself. It forms the foundational concept from which the state of humility arises, often through trial or deliberate submission [[Deuteronomy 8:2]].
* `{{H6035}}` **ʻânâv**: Derived from `{{H6031}}`, this word describes one who is figuratively depressed in mind or circumstance, meaning **humble**, **lowly**, or **meek**. It is the state of the person who is told to "seek meekness" [[Zephaniah 2:3]].
* `{{H1361}}` **gâbahh**: Meaning to be lofty or, figuratively, to be **haughty**. This term serves as a direct antonym to humility, as seen in the contrast: "the heart of man is **haughty** `{{H1361}}`, and before honour is humility `{{H6038}}`" [[Proverbs 18:12]].
* `{{H3374}}` **yirʼâh**: This word for **fear**, particularly reverence for God, is explicitly linked with humility as a path to wisdom and life's blessings ([[Proverbs 22:4]], [[Proverbs 15:33]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6038}}` is significant, establishing a core principle of spiritual life.
* **A Prerequisite for Honor:** Scripture repeatedly establishes a divine pattern where humility precedes exaltation. The principle "before honour is humility" is a consistent theme, indicating that recognition and blessing from God are outcomes of a humble posture ([[Proverbs 15:33]], [[Proverbs 18:12]]).
* **An Element of Righteousness:** Humility is not a passive quality but an active pursuit. It is sought alongside **righteousness** `{{H6664}}` and is a characteristic of the "meek of the earth" who follow God's judgment [[Zephaniah 2:3]].
* **A Divine Characteristic:** Humility and gentleness are not limited to human virtue. God Himself exhibits a form of it, described as a "gentleness" that shields and makes His people great, revealing it as a feature of divine power and salvation [[2 Samuel 22:36]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6038}}` is more than just a word for modesty; it is a foundational spiritual principle. It defines the posture required for receiving divine honor, the virtue that must be actively pursued alongside righteousness, and a characteristic of God Himself in His relationship with humanity. As a path to life and honor, **ʻănâvâh** is presented as an essential quality for those who fear the Lord.
TRV