### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qâlôwn**, represented by `{{H7036}}`, signifies **disgrace**, **dishonour**, and **shame**. Derived from a root meaning to be light or slighted, its definition also includes confusion, ignominy, reproach, and by implication, the pudenda. It appears **17 times** across **17 unique verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H7036}}` consistently denotes a state of public disgrace resulting from foolish or wicked actions. It is presented as the direct consequence of pride, as stated in Proverbs: "When pride{H2087} cometh, then cometh shame{H7036}" [[Proverbs 11:2]]. Rejecting wisdom also leads to dishonour, where "Poverty{H7389} and shame{H7036} shall be to him that refuseth{H6544} instruction{H4148}" [[Proverbs 13:18]]. This shame is often depicted as a form of divine judgment, where God acts to expose wrongdoing, as when He declares He will "discover thy skirts upon thy face, that thy shame{H7036} may appear" ([[Jeremiah 13:26]], [[Nahum 3:5]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to define the context and consequences of `{{H7036}}`:
* `{{H3519}}` **kâbôwd** (glory, honour): This word is frequently used as the direct opposite of shame. In an act of judgment, God declares, "I change their glory{H3519} into shame{H7036}" [[Hosea 4:7]], and a prophecy in Habakkuk states, "Thou art filled with shame{H7036} for glory{H3519}" [[Habakkuk 2:16]].
* `{{H2087}}` **zâdôwn** (arrogance, pride): This term identifies a primary cause of shame. The link is made explicit in scripture, establishing that pride precedes disgrace [[Proverbs 11:2]].
* `{{H2781}}` **cherpâh** (reproach, disgrace): Often appearing alongside `{{H7036}}`, this word reinforces the concept of public disgrace. The arrival of the wicked brings not only contempt but also "with ignominy{H7036} reproach{H2781}" [[Proverbs 18:3]].
* `{{H3887}}` **lûwts** (mocker, scorner): The actions of a scorner are shown to be a source of social disruption that ceases when they are removed, causing "strife and reproach{H7036}" to end [[Proverbs 22:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7036}}` is significant, highlighting the moral order of God's world.
* **The Fruit of Folly and Wickedness:** Shame is the inevitable outcome for those who reject wisdom and pursue evil. It is the "promotion of fools" [[Proverbs 3:35]] and accompanies the wicked [[Proverbs 18:3]]. A prudent man is able to cover shame, while a fool’s wrath is immediately known [[Proverbs 12:16]].
* **An Instrument of Divine Judgment:** God actively uses shame to punish nations and individuals. He fills faces with shame so that they might seek His name [[Psalms 83:16]] and turns the glory of those who sin against Him into shame [[Hosea 4:7]]. In a prophecy against Babylon, shame is intensified to "shameful spewing{H7022}" [[Habakkuk 2:16]].
* **The Opposite of Honor and Glory:** Scripture consistently positions shame in opposition to honor. While the wise inherit glory, fools inherit shame [[Proverbs 3:35]]. Similarly, one who refuses instruction receives shame, but one who regards reproof "shall be honoured{H3513}" [[Proverbs 13:18]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7036}}` is not merely a term for embarrassment but represents a profound state of disgrace and dishonour. It serves as a stark biblical warning, illustrating the consequences of pride, foolishness, and sin. As both a natural outcome of wicked behavior and a tool of divine judgment, it stands as the direct antithesis to the glory and honor that come from humility, wisdom, and obedience to God.
TRV