### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shephel**, represented by `{{H8216}}`, defines **an humble rank** or a **low estate (place)**. It is derived from the word שָׁפֵל. This specific term appears only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, giving it a very focused meaning in its contexts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H8216}}` describes a condition of being humbled or being in a lowly position. In the Psalms, it is used to recall God's faithfulness to Israel, who **remembered** them in their **low estate** [[Psalms 136:23]], linking this state to an opportunity for divine mercy. In contrast, Ecclesiastes uses the term to depict a world turned upside down, where folly is given great **dignity** and the **rich** are made to sit in a **low place** [[Ecclesiastes 10:6]], suggesting a position of dishonor or social reversal.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{H8216}}` by providing direct context:
* `{{H2142}}` **zâkar** (properly, to mark (so as to be recognized), i.e. to remember): This action is directed toward those in a "low estate" `{{H8216}}`. God's act of remembering in [[Psalms 136:23]] is what gives the state of lowliness its significance, as it is the condition that precedes divine deliverance.
* `{{H4791}}` **mârôwm** (altitude...dignity...high...place): This word serves as a direct antonym to `{{H8216}}` in [[Ecclesiastes 10:6]]. While folly is placed in "dignity" `{{H4791}}`, the worthy sit in a "low place," creating a sharp contrast between high honor and a debased position.
* `{{H6223}}` **ʻâshîyr** (rich, whether literal or figurative (noble); rich (man)): This word identifies those who are improperly seated in the "low place" `{{H8216}}` in Ecclesiastes. The placement of the "rich" in this lowly position highlights the passage's theme of societal foolishness and disorder.
### Theological Significance
The thematic weight of `{{H8216}}` is centered on the concept of status and position.
* **A State of Humble Need:** In its appearance in Psalms, the "low estate" is not presented as a negative state but as the circumstance in which God's mercy is most clearly demonstrated. It is a position of dependency that invites divine remembrance [[Psalms 136:23]].
* **A Position of Social Dishonor:** The context in Ecclesiastes portrays the "low place" as a sign of a dysfunctional society. It is where the deserving are unjustly placed, signifying a moral and social inversion where folly is exalted over worth [[Ecclesiastes 10:6]].
* **The Contrast of Perspectives:** Ultimately, the word contrasts God's view of the lowly with the world's. God remembers and elevates those in a "low estate," whereas a foolish world demotes the rich and worthy to a "low place."
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8216}}` is a precise term for a humble or low position. While rare, its two appearances provide a powerful contrast. It can signify a "low estate" of humility where one experiences God's merciful intervention, or it can describe a "low place" of dishonor that reflects a society in moral chaos. The word effectively captures the profound difference between divine values and worldly foolishness.
TRV