from קוּם; height; [idiom] along, height, high, stature, tall.
Transliteration:qôwmâh
Pronunciation:ko-maw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun qôwmâh (קוֹמָה), Strong's `{{H6967}}`, is derived from the verbal root `{{H6965}}` (קוּם - qûm), meaning "to rise," "to stand up," or "to establish." Consequently, qôwmâh fundamentally refers to the vertical dimension, primarily denoting "height" or "stature." Its semantic range encompasses the physical height of a person, animal, or object, as well as the full extent or upright dimension of something. While often used literally, it can also carry an idiomatic sense, indicating the full measure or "along" the height of a structure.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Qôwmâh appears in various contexts throughout the Hebrew Bible, consistently emphasizing vertical measurement.
1. **Human Stature:** It frequently describes the physical height of individuals, sometimes highlighting their impressive or imposing build. For instance, King Saul is noted for his exceptional qôwmâh, standing "head and shoulders above anyone else" ([[1 Samuel 9:2]]). Similarly, the "Egyptian man of great stature" slain by Benaiah is described using this term ([[1 Chronicles 11:23]]). A crucial theological application is found in [[1 Samuel 16:7]], where God explicitly tells Samuel not to look at Eliab's qôwmâh or outward appearance, for the Lord looks at the heart. This verse profoundly redefines the criteria for divine favor. The formidable height of the Amorites is also recalled in [[Amos 2:9]], comparing their qôwmâh to the height of cedars.
2. **Object and Structure Height:** The term is also applied to the dimensions of inanimate objects and structures. Noah's ark is given a specific qôwmâh of 30 cubits ([[Genesis 6:15]]). The height of the cherubim in Solomon's temple is specified as ten cubits ([[1 Kings 7:35]]). The "tall cedars" mentioned in prophetic texts, such as [[2 Kings 19:23]] and [[Isaiah 37:24]], refer to their qôwmâh. Even the height of Haman's gallows is precisely stated as fifty cubits ([[Esther 5:14]], [[Esther 7:9]]).
3. **Idiomatic Usage:** In some instances, qôwmâh can imply the full extent or "along" a vertical surface. For example, in Ezekiel's vision of the temple, he describes the various dimensions, including "the height" (qôwmâh) of specific architectural features ([[Ezekiel 40:42]]). While the base definition includes "along," this usage more accurately reflects "full height" or "entire vertical dimension" rather than a linear movement.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for qôwmâh is its root, `{{H6965}}` (קוּם - qûm), which signifies "to rise," "to stand," or "to establish." This foundational verb highlights the inherent uprightness or verticality implied by qôwmâh.
Other related terms include:
* `{{H738}}` ('ôrek): "length," often used in conjunction with qôwmâh or middâh (measure) to describe overall dimensions.
* `{{H4055}}` (middâh): "measure" or "dimension," a more general term that can encompass height, width, and length.
* `{{H1361}}` (gōvah): "height" or "loftiness." While similar to qôwmâh, gōvah often carries a connotation of pride, arrogance, or exalted status, particularly when applied to human attributes or structures that symbolize human power. qôwmâh, in contrast, is more neutral and descriptive of physical dimension.
The concept of qôwmâh stands in conceptual contrast to lowliness, humility, or prostration, though direct lexical antonyms are not prominent.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of qôwmâh is most powerfully articulated in the narrative of Samuel's anointing of David. The divine rejection of Eliab, despite his impressive qôwmâh, in favor of the humble shepherd David ([[1 Samuel 16:7]]), serves as a cornerstone for understanding God's priorities. This passage profoundly counters human tendencies to judge based on outward appearances, physical prowess, or imposing stature. Instead, God emphasizes the internal state of the heart, demonstrating that true worth and suitability for divine service are rooted in character, not qôwmâh.
This theme is echoed in the fall of King Saul, whose impressive qôwmâh initially marked him as a suitable leader but ultimately proved insufficient due to his disobedience and pride. The physical might of the Amorites, though significant, did not prevent their defeat by God's people, further illustrating that qôwmâh is not the ultimate determinant of strength or success in God's economy.
Furthermore, the use of qôwmâh in describing the precise dimensions of sacred structures like the ark and the temple highlights God's meticulous design and the importance of adherence to divine specifications in matters of worship and order. It underscores the divine blueprint for creation and sacred spaces, where every dimension, including qôwmâh, is purposeful.
### Summary
Qôwmâh (קוֹמָה, `{{H6967}}`) is a Hebrew noun primarily denoting "height" or "stature," deriving from the root `{{H6965}}` ("to rise," "to stand"). It is consistently used in the biblical text to describe the physical dimensions of both living beings and inanimate objects, ranging from the impressive qôwmâh of individuals like Saul to the precise measurements of the ark or the temple. Theologically, its most profound significance lies in the divine declaration of [[1 Samuel 16:7]], where God explicitly rejects human judgment based on outward qôwmâh in favor of evaluating the heart. Thus, qôwmâh serves as a powerful reminder that true value, strength, and suitability in God's eyes are not found in imposing physical attributes or superficial appearance, but in inner character and alignment with divine will.
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