κλίνω

I rest, recline, make to yield

Definition

The verb κλίνω (klinō) carries the core idea of bending or inclining. In its literal sense, it means to recline or rest, as when Jesus had nowhere to 'lay his head' (Matthew 8:20, Luke 9:58). It also describes the physical act of bowing or inclining one's head, most poignantly when Jesus 'bowed his head' at the moment of his death (John 19:30). In a more figurative or military sense, it can mean to cause to give way or yield, as in the faith of heroes that made armies 'turn back' (Hebrews 11:34).

Biblical Usage

κλίνω is used seven times in the New Testament, primarily in the Gospels. Its usage splits between literal and figurative meanings. The literal sense of reclining or bowing is seen in the Gospels (Matthew 8:20, Luke 9:12, 9:58, 24:5, 24:29, John 19:30). The single figurative use, meaning to cause to yield or retreat, appears in Hebrews 11:34 within a list of acts of faith.

Etymology

Derived from the Proto-Indo-European root *ḱley-, meaning 'to lean' or 'to slope.' It is the root of many Greek words related to inclination or position, such as κλίνη (klinē, 'bed' or 'couch') and κλίμα (klima, 'region' or 'clime'). This root sense of leaning or bending is consistent across its biblical uses.

Semantic Range

κλίνω is theologically significant in two key passages. In John 19:30, Jesus 'bowed his head' (κλίνας τὴν κεφαλήν) as he gave up his spirit, a deliberate act marking the completion of his atoning work. In Hebrews 11:34, it describes the power of faith to make enemy armies 'yield,' illustrating faith's active, overcoming nature. Understanding this word enriches the imagery of Christ's voluntary death and the victorious quality of genuine faith.

In the ancient Greco-Roman world, reclining (κλίνω) for a meal was a sign of leisure, fellowship, and honor, typically reserved for free men rather than slaves. This context makes Jesus' statement about having 'nowhere to lay his head' (Luke 9:58) a powerful declaration of his itinerant, humble ministry, contrasting with cultural expectations of stability and honor. The act of bowing one's head, especially at death, conveyed finality and submission.

ἀναπαύω (anapauō, G373) — emphasizes resting or refreshing, often from labor. κατακλίνω (kataklinō, G2625) — specifically means to recline at a table for a meal. κύπτω (kyptō, G2955) — means to stoop down or bend forward, often in a posture of humility or to look closely.

Word Details

Scripture References