### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **taʻănîyth**, represented by `{{H8589}}`, describes a state of **heaviness** or self-affliction. Derived from a root word meaning to afflict oneself, it points to a condition of deep sorrow or fasting. It is a very specific term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire biblical text, making its single context critically important for its meaning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H8589}}` is found in [[Ezra 9:5]], where it captures a moment of profound grief and repentance. In this verse, Ezra states that at the time of the evening sacrifice `{{H4503}}`, he "arose up from my **heaviness**". This internal state of affliction immediately precedes a series of outward actions: he rent `{{H7167}}` his garment `{{H899}}` and mantle `{{H4598}}`, fell `{{H3766}}` upon his knees `{{H1290}}`, and spread out `{{H6566}}` his hands `{{H3709}}` in prayer to the LORD `{{H3068}}` his God `{{H430}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context illuminate the physical expression of this inner **heaviness**:
* `{{H7167}}` **qâraʻ** (to rend): This primitive root signifies a literal or figurative tearing. It is used for the rending of garments as an act of mourning [[2 Kings 22:19]] and, metaphorically, for the rending of one's heart in true repentance [[Joel 2:13]].
* `{{H3766}}` **kâraʻ** (to bend the knee): This word describes the physical act of bowing or sinking down. It is used to convey worship and submission before God [[Psalm 95:6]] and is the posture of those whose knees have not bowed to idols [[1 Kings 19:18]].
* `{{H6566}}` **pâras** (to spread out): A primitive root meaning to spread or stretch forth. This action is frequently associated with prayer, as in spreading out one's hands toward God [[Isaiah 1:15]] or, in a different context, a virtuous woman stretching her hands to the poor [[Proverbs 31:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8589}}` is concentrated in its singular, powerful appearance. It illustrates a key spiritual principle through Ezra's experience.
* **Affliction Preceding Action:** The state of **heaviness** is not one of paralysis but a catalyst. It is the internal condition from which a person rises up `{{H6965}}` to engage in tangible acts of repentance and prayer.
* **Physical Expression of Inner Grief:** This term is intrinsically linked to outward signs of sorrow. The heaviness of the heart is expressed by rending clothes `{{H7167}}` and falling to one's knees `{{H3766}}`, showing that deep spiritual distress often manifests physically.
* **Directed Toward God:** The entire sequence initiated by the **heaviness** is directed toward God `{{H430}}`. Ezra's response is not aimless despair but a purposeful turning to the LORD `{{H3068}}` in supplication, marked by the lifting of hands `{{H3709}}` at the evening sacrifice `{{H4503}}`.
### Summary
In summary, while extremely rare, `{{H8589}}` provides a significant snapshot of biblical mourning and repentance. It defines **heaviness** not as a final state of despair, but as a profound internal affliction that prompts a turn toward God. Its single use in [[Ezra 9:5]] powerfully connects inner sorrow with the outward, physical acts of humility, supplication, and worship.
TRV