### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bûwz**, represented by `{{H937}}`, denotes **disrespect**, **contempt**, or being **despised** or **shamed**. It appears **11 times** in **11 unique verses**, highlighting its specific role in describing a potent form of disdain and dishonor. The term captures the act of looking down on someone, the resulting state of being shamed, and the feeling of being filled with contempt.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H937}}` is used to describe contempt from various sources and for different reasons. It is an expression of the proud, who speak **contemptuously** against the righteous [[Psalms 31:18]]. The psalmist feels exceedingly filled with the **contempt** of those who are at ease [[Psalms 123:4]], while Job mentions the fear of **contempt** from families [[Job 31:34]]. Conversely, God is shown to pour **contempt** upon princes as an act of judgment ([[Psalms 107:40]], [[Job 12:21]]). The term is also linked to personal dishonor, as when Judah expresses concern "lest we be **shamed**" [[Genesis 38:23]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and nature of contempt:
* `{{H1343}}` **gêʼeh** (proud): This term for being **lofty** or **arrogant** is directly identified as a source of contempt. The psalmist is filled with the contempt of the **proud** [[Psalms 123:4]].
* `{{H2781}}` **cherpâh** (reproach): Often appearing alongside `{{H937}}`, this word for **disgrace** and **rebuke** emphasizes the public shame associated with contempt. The psalmist prays to have both **reproach** and contempt removed [[Psalms 119:22]].
* `{{H8210}}` **shâphak** (poureth): This verb, meaning to **spill forth** or **pour out**, describes God's active judgment. God is the one who **poureth** contempt upon princes, demonstrating it as an instrument of divine power ([[Job 12:21]], [[Psalms 107:40]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H937}}` is significant, highlighting the moral and spiritual dynamics of pride and humility.
* **A Consequence of Sin:** Contempt is directly associated with wickedness. When the wicked come, so comes **contempt** [[Proverbs 18:3]]. It is spoken by lying lips against the righteous [[Psalms 31:18]] and is characteristic of the proud [[Psalms 123:4]].
* **An Instrument of Divine Judgment:** God Himself wields contempt to humble the powerful. He **poureth contempt** upon princes, turning their status to dishonor and causing them to wander aimlessly [[Psalms 107:40]].
* **The Affliction of the Righteous:** The faithful often endure contempt as a form of persecution. The soul of the psalmist is "exceedingly filled with contempt" [[Psalms 123:3]], and he prays for its removal as a burden alongside reproach [[Psalms 119:22]].
* **A Mark of a Perverse Heart:** A person is **despised** `{{H937}}` for having a perverse heart, in direct contrast to one who is commended for wisdom [[Proverbs 12:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H937}}` is more than simple disrespect; it is a profound expression of dishonor with serious moral implications. It originates from the pride and wickedness of humanity, is experienced as a deep affliction by the righteous, and is ultimately used by God as a tool of divine justice to abase the arrogant. The word **bûwz** thus serves as a key descriptor in the biblical narrative of the conflict between pride and righteousness, and between human authority and divine sovereignty.
TRV