שׁוּחַ (shu.ach)
shu.ach
to sink
H:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:V
Word Overview
The Hebrew verb shuach describes a physical sinking or bowing down, capturing the motion of yielding under weight. In its basic form, it depicts something descending or collapsing, much like a structure giving way or a person lowering themselves in submission. This concrete image grounds the word’s deeper spiritual applications, where physical posture reflects internal reality.
When used with a mental or emotional subject, as seen in Lamentations 3:28, shuach refers to the depression of the mind. It is not merely sadness but a heavy, sinking feeling that overwhelms the spirit. The text advises sitting alone and keeping silence, illustrating how this internal weight can lead to withdrawal and quiet endurance rather than active complaint.
Proverbs 25:4 uses the related concept metaphorically, speaking of removing dross from silver so it remains pure. While shuach itself does not appear in that specific proverb, the theme of refining through pressure aligns with the word’s sense of being pressed down. The sources connect this verb to humility and lowliness, suggesting that true strength often involves accepting a position of dependence rather than resisting the downward motion.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Hebrew word shuach paints a picture of sinking or bowing under weight. It describes the physical act of yielding to gravity, but also the internal experience of being pressed down by sorrow or humility. When your spirit feels heavy, this word reminds you that such moments are part of the human condition, not a sign of failure.
In Lamentations 3:20, the writer says his soul is bowed down within him. This is not just sadness; it is a deep, sinking feeling that overwhelms the spirit. The text suggests sitting alone and keeping silence, showing how this weight can lead to quiet endurance rather than active complaint.
True strength often involves accepting a position of dependence. Instead of resisting the downward motion, we can find peace in yielding to God’s presence. This posture allows us to rest in His care when we feel too weak to stand on our own.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- so/ it may bow down1×
- she sank down1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- שָׁ֣חָה1×
- וְ/תָשׁ֥וֹחַ1×
Key Verses
-
Lamentations 3:20
My soul still remembers them, and is bowed down within me.
This verse uses shuach to describe the soul being bowed down, illustrating how deep sorrow can physically and emotionally weigh a person down.