### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qôwmᵉmîyûwth**, represented by `{{H6968}}`, signifies a state of being **upright**. Based on a root meaning "elevation," this term appears only **1 time** in the Bible. Its singular use conveys a powerful figurative meaning of walking erectly, in a state of restored freedom and dignity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole instance of `{{H6968}}` is found in [[Leviticus 26:13]], where God recounts His deliverance of Israel. He states, "I am the LORD your God, which brought you forth out of the land of Egypt, that ye should not be their bondmen; and I have broken the bands of your yoke, and made you go **upright**." The word directly contrasts the posture of a free person with that of a bondman `{{H5650}}` bent under a yoke `{{H5923}}`. It describes the physical and symbolic result of God's redemptive act.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context illuminate the meaning of being upright:
* `{{H5923}}` **ʻôl** (yoke): This word for a **yoke**, used literally or figuratively, represents the burden of slavery and oppression. God's action of breaking the yoke is the prerequisite for Israel to walk upright [[Leviticus 26:13]].
* `{{H7665}}` **shâbar** (to break): This primitive root, meaning to **burst** or **crush**, describes God's decisive action against Israel's bondage. By breaking the yoke, God removes the instrument of oppression [[Ezekiel 34:27]].
* `{{H3212}}` **yâlak** (to walk): Meaning **to walk** or go, this verb is directly modified by `{{H6968}}`. God "made you go" upright, signifying a new manner of life and movement, a journey taken in freedom rather than servitude [[Leviticus 26:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6968}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful appearance:
* **Symbol of Redemption:** To walk "upright" is the definitive sign of liberation from the bondage of Egypt `{{H4714}}`. It is a physical manifestation of God's covenant promise to bring His people out `{{H3318}}` of servitude.
* **Restoration of Dignity:** The imagery contrasts the bent-over posture of a slave under a yoke `{{H5923}}` with the erect stance of a free person. This act of being made upright by the LORD `{{H3068}}` symbolizes the restoration of honor and identity to a people who were once bondmen `{{H5650}}`.
* **A New Walk of Freedom:** The phrase "made you go upright" [[Leviticus 26:13]] points to a transformed way of life. The freedom granted by God enables a new "walk" `{{H3212}}`, no longer defined by oppression but by the liberty that comes from God's direct intervention.
### Summary
In summary, while appearing only once, `{{H6968}}` provides a profound illustration of divine redemption. It is not merely about posture but about a fundamental change in status. Through its use in [[Leviticus 26:13]], **qôwmᵉmîyûwth** encapsulates the entire journey from the crushing weight of slavery in Egypt to the liberated, dignified walk of a people set free by God.
TRV