### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shâphâl**, represented by `{{H8217}}`, describes something **depressed, literally or figuratively**. Derived from the root word `{{H8213}}`, it appears **19 times** across **18 unique verses**. Its meaning ranges from being physically **low** or **lower** to being figuratively **humble** or **base**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its figurative sense, `{{H8217}}` often contrasts a state of humility with pride. A man's pride will bring him low, but the **humble** in spirit are upheld by honour [[Proverbs 29:23]]. God Himself, though high, has respect for the **lowly** [[Psalms 138:6]] and dwells with those of a **humble** spirit [[Isaiah 57:15]]. The term can also denote a state of judgment or disgrace, as when priests are made **base** for their unfaithfulness [[Malachi 2:9]], or when a nation is destined to become the **basest** of kingdoms [[Ezekiel 29:15]]. Literally, `{{H8217}}` is used to describe a plague as being visually **lower** than the skin [[Leviticus 13:20]], a vine of **low** stature [[Ezekiel 17:6]], or the sound of grinding becoming **low** [[Ecclesiastes 12:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the meaning and application of `{{H8217}}`:
* `{{H8213}}` **shâphêl** (to depress or sink): This is the primitive root from which `{{H8217}}` is derived, signifying the action of making something low. It is often used in direct parallel, where God will **bring ... low** `{{H8213}}` the proud while exalting the **low** `{{H8217}}` [[Ezekiel 17:24]].
* `{{H1364}}` **gâbôahh** (high, lofty, proud): This word serves as a direct antonym. Scripture frequently contrasts the **proud** `{{H1364}}` whom God opposes with the **lowly** `{{H8217}}` to whom He shows respect [[Psalms 138:6]].
* `{{H1793}}` **dakkâʼ** (contrite): This term is used alongside `{{H8217}}` to describe a praiseworthy spiritual state. God promises to dwell with the one who is of a **contrite** `{{H1793}}` and **humble** `{{H8217}}` spirit in order to revive them [[Isaiah 57:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8217}}` is significant, highlighting key aspects of God's character and actions.
* **The Divine Reversal:** A central theme involving `{{H8217}}` is God's practice of overturning human hierarchies. He promises to "exalt him that is **low**, and abase him that is high" [[Ezekiel 21:26]], and to set up on high those that be **low** [[Job 5:11]].
* **A Prerequisite for Fellowship:** A **humble** state is presented as a condition for intimacy with God. The Lord, who is "high and lofty," specifically chooses to dwell with those who possess a **contrite** and **humble** spirit [[Isaiah 57:15]].
* **A Mark of Judgment:** In a negative context, being made **low** or **base** is a consequence of disobedience. The kingdom of Egypt is prophesied to become the **basest** of kingdoms [[Ezekiel 29:15]], and unfaithful priests are made **base** before the people [[Malachi 2:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8217}}` is a multifaceted term that moves beyond a simple physical description of lowness. It encapsulates a profound spiritual dynamic, representing both the humble state that God honors and the **base** condition that results from judgment. The word is fundamental to the biblical principle that God opposes the proud and exalts the **lowly**, illustrating a core tenet of His relationship with humanity.
TRV