שׁוֹק
the (lower) leg (as a runner)
Definition
The Hebrew noun שׁוֹק (shôwq) primarily refers to the lower leg, specifically the part from the knee to the ankle, often of an animal. In its most common biblical usage, it denotes the hind leg or thigh of a sacrificial animal, which was designated as a portion for the priests (e.g., Exodus 29:27; Leviticus 7:34). The word can also be used metaphorically for the leg of a person, emphasizing strength or speed in running (Song of Solomon 5:15). In a few poetic or symbolic contexts, it can refer more broadly to the thigh or hip region, as seen in its application to the patriarch Jacob after his wrestling encounter (Genesis 32:25, 31-32, though a different Hebrew word is used there; שׁוֹק itself is used for the hip in Judges 15:8).
Biblical Usage
שׁוֹק is used almost exclusively in ritual and legal contexts within the Pentateuch, specifically in Exodus and Leviticus, detailing the portions of peace and ordination offerings reserved for Aaron and his priestly descendants (Exodus 29:22, 27; Leviticus 7:32-34; 8:25-26; 9:21). This establishes a clear pattern of cultic usage. Outside the Torah, it appears in narrative (Judges 15:8) and poetry (Song of Solomon 5:15), broadening its application to human anatomy and metaphor.
Etymology
Derived from the root שׁוּק (H7783), meaning 'to run' or 'to rush.' This connection suggests the primary sense of the noun is the 'leg' as the instrument of running. Cognates appear in other Semitic languages, like Akkadian 'sāqu' (leg) and Arabic 'sāq' (shank), confirming the core meaning of the lower leg.
Semantic Range
The word is theologically significant as it designates a specific, consecrated portion of sacrificial animals—the thigh or hind leg—that was given to the priests as their perpetual due (Leviticus 7:34). This established a tangible provision for the priestly tribe (the Levites) who had no land inheritance, symbolizing God's direct sustenance of those dedicated to His service. Understanding this term enriches reading of sacrificial texts by highlighting the practical and symbolic economics of worship in Israel's covenant system.
In the ancient Near Eastern context, the thigh or hindquarter of an animal was considered a choice, fatty portion. Assigning this specific cut to the priests was a sign of honor and provision, reflecting their elevated status within the community. The modern concept of 'leg' is broader; שׁוֹק specifically denotes the lower leg or a defined portion of the animal's hind limb used in ritual practice.
יָרֵךְ (yārēk, H3409) — A broader term for thigh, loin, or side; used for the human thigh (Genesis 24:2) and as a euphemism for generative power. רֶגֶל (regel, H7272) — The common word for foot or leg, referring to the entire limb or specifically the foot; used for both humans and animals in general contexts.
Word Details
How this works
Hebrew definitions are from Brown-Driver-Briggs (1906) and Strong's Exhaustive Concordance (1890), both public domain. BDB was groundbreaking for its era but reflects 19th-century assumptions about Semitic etymology. Modern scholarship (HALOT, DCH) has revised many entries. Use these definitions as a starting point for exploration, not as the final word on a term's meaning in context.
Full methodology & sources →