עֹ֫מֶק (o.meq)
o.meq
depth
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun o.meq, translated as "depth," appears only once in the Old Testament, within Proverbs 18:4. In this specific context, it describes the profound and hidden nature of words spoken by a wise person. The image suggests that true insight is not superficial; like deep water, it holds richness and complexity beneath a calm surface.
Although the word generally denotes physical depth or vastness in other Semitic languages, its solitary biblical usage here shifts the focus to intellectual and spiritual profundity. It contrasts with shallow speech, implying that wisdom requires careful thought and has layers that are not immediately visible to casual observers. The text highlights how a wise man’s words flow from this inner reservoir of understanding.
Translators often render this term simply as "depth" or "deep waters," preserving the metaphor of volume and concealment. This single occurrence serves as a reminder in Proverbs that wisdom is not merely about knowing facts, but about accessing the deep well of discernment that characterizes a thoughtful life.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Hebrew word o.meq, meaning depth, appears in Proverbs 25:3 to describe the earth’s vastness. This image reminds us that just as the ground has hidden layers, human hearts contain mysteries beyond our full grasp. When we encounter someone whose thoughts seem impenetrable, like a king’s heart, it invites humility rather than frustration.
This understanding encourages patience in relationships. We do not need to dissect every motive or demand immediate clarity from others. Instead, we can trust that God sees what lies beneath the surface. Recognizing the depth in others allows us to move forward with grace, knowing that true connection often grows slowly over time.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- for <the>/ depth1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- לָ/עֹ֑מֶק1×
Key Verses
-
Proverbs 25:3
As the heavens for height, and the earth for depth, so the hearts of kings are unsearchable.
This verse uses 'depth' as a metaphor for the unsearchable nature of royal hearts, highlighting human complexity.