### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qarçôl**, represented by `{{H7166}}`, refers to the **ankle** or **foot**. Derived from a root meaning to stoop or crouch, it points to the joint that provides stability and movement. It is a rare term, appearing only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, both times illustrating a theme of divine support.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H7166}}` appears in two nearly identical passages that describe God's deliverance and provision. In both [[Psalms 18:36]] and [[2 Samuel 22:37]], the speaker declares, "Thou hast enlarged my steps under me, that my **feet** did not slip." Here, the **foot** or ankle is the part of the body that is kept stable and secure, not by its own strength, but by God creating a firm and wide path for it to walk upon.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context clarify the meaning of a divinely secured path:
* `{{H7337}}` **râchab** (to broaden... make room, make (open) wide): This is the action God performs to ensure the psalmist's safety. It signifies the creation of a broad, secure space, preventing stumbling [[Psalms 18:36]].
* `{{H6806}}` **tsaʻad** (a pace or regular step): This refers to the "steps" that God enlarges. The Bible notes elsewhere that it is the LORD who directs a person's steps [[Proverbs 16:9]].
* `{{H4571}}` **mâʻad** (to waver; make to shake, slide, slip): This is the negative outcome that is avoided thanks to God's intervention. A person who trusts in the LORD can declare, "I shall not slide" [[Psalms 26:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7166}}` is tied to the concept of God's role in a believer's journey.
* **Divine Support:** The word is used exclusively to illustrate that a person's stability and ability to stand firm come directly from God. He is the one who enlarges the path so the feet do not slip [[2 Samuel 22:37]].
* **A Secure Path:** The image of feet that do not slip points to a life protected from disaster and moral failure. The stability of the `{{H7166}}` ankle symbolizes the security of one's entire walk when it is established by God.
* **Dependence on God:** By highlighting that the feet were kept from slipping, the context emphasizes human frailty and the need for God's sustaining power. Man's steps are not secure on their own, but are made so by God's intervention [[Psalms 18:36]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7166}}` is a precise anatomical term used metaphorically to represent a person's walk and foundation. Though it appears only twice, its context powerfully conveys that true stability in life's journey is not self-achieved but is a gift from God, who provides a broad path and keeps his people from falling.
TRV