or (feminine) עִקְּבָה; from עָקַב; a heel (as protuberant); hence, a track; figuratively, the rear (of an army); heel, (horse-) hoof, last, lier in wait (by mistake for עָקֵב), (foot-) step.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻâqêb**, represented by `{{H6119}}`, literally refers to a **heel** or track. It appears 13 times across 13 unique verses in the Bible. While its primary meaning is a heel, it extends figuratively to mean a footstep, a horse's hoof, the rear of an army, or the last part of something.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H6119}}` is used to illustrate vulnerability, conflict, and guidance. It appears in the foundational prophecy of Genesis, where the serpent is cursed to bruise the **heel** of the woman's seed [[Genesis 3:15]]. The term is also associated with betrayal, as when a trusted friend "hath lifted up his **heel**" against the psalmist [[Psalms 41:9]]. In a more literal sense, it describes Jacob taking Esau's **heel** at birth [[Genesis 25:26]], and it is used for horse **heels** being bitten by a serpent [[Genesis 49:17]] or broken in battle [[Judges 5:22]]. It can also signify a path to be followed, such as the "footsteps of the flock" [[Song of Solomon 1:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide deeper context for the meanings of `{{H6119}}`:
* `{{H7779}}` **shûwph** (bruise): This verb is directly linked to `{{H6119}}` in the prophecy of [[Genesis 3:15]], where the serpent will **bruise** the heel, and the seed of the woman will **bruise** the serpent's head.
* `{{H5391}}` **nâshak** (bite): This word highlights the vulnerability of the heel, as seen in the prophecy concerning Dan, who as a serpent **biteth** the horse heels, causing the rider to fall [[Genesis 49:17]].
* `{{H270}}` **ʼâchaz** (take hold): This word describes the act of seizing the heel, both literally in the birth of Jacob who **took hold** on Esau's heel [[Genesis 25:26]], and figuratively, as when a trap or "gin shall **take** him by the heel" [[Job 18:9]].
* `{{H1870}}` **derek** (way, road): This term for a path or course of life contrasts with the individual footstep of `{{H6119}}`. God's **way** may be mysterious and His footsteps unknown [[Psalms 77:19]], while in other instances, a serpent lies in wait "by the **way**" to attack the heel [[Genesis 49:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6119}}` is significant, touching on core scriptural themes.
* **Prophetic Conflict:** The word is central to the first Messianic prophecy, establishing a narrative of conflict between the seed of the woman and the serpent. The strike against the **heel** signifies a non-lethal, yet painful, attack on the Messiah, who in turn will deliver a crushing blow to his enemy's head [[Genesis 3:15]].
* **Vulnerability and Betrayal:** The heel represents a point of attack for one's enemies. This is seen when adversaries "mark my **steps**" [[Psalms 56:6]] and when a close companion turns in betrayal [[Psalms 41:9]]. A snare is set for the **heel**, signifying a trap laid for the righteous [[Job 18:9]].
* **Divine Mystery and Guidance:** While the "footsteps of the flock" provide a clear path to follow [[Song of Solomon 1:8]], God's own "footsteps are not known" [[Psalms 77:19]], illustrating the mysterious and untraceable nature of His ways. This concept is also present in the reproach against the "footsteps of thine **anointed**" [[Psalms 89:51]], where the path of God's chosen one is mocked.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6119}}` is a word that moves from the literal to the profoundly figurative. From the physical **heel** of a man or hoof of a horse, it comes to symbolize one's path, a point of vulnerability, and the target of enemy opposition. It is woven into the fabric of prophecy, betrayal, and the mysterious ways of God, demonstrating how a simple anatomical term can carry immense theological significance.
TRV