כָּרָע

כָּרָע

the leg (from the knee to the ankle) of men or locusts (only in the dual)

Definition

The Hebrew noun כָּרָע (kârâʻ) refers specifically to the lower leg, from the knee to the ankle. It is almost exclusively used in its dual form (כְּרָעַיִם, kᵉrāʻayim), meaning 'legs' or 'a pair of legs.' In the Bible, it describes the legs of humans, particularly in the context of sacrificial rituals where animals are quartered (e.g., Exodus 12:9, Leviticus 1:9). It also uniquely describes the powerful hind legs of certain locusts, which are used for leaping, as detailed in the dietary laws of Leviticus 11:21.

Biblical Usage

This word is used nine times, predominantly in the priestly texts of Exodus and Leviticus. Its primary context is the preparation of sacrificial animals, where instructions specify not to boil the Passover lamb but to roast it, including its head, legs (כְּרָעַיִם), and inner parts (Exodus 12:9). In Leviticus, it appears repeatedly in instructions for burning specific portions of offerings on the altar (e.g., Leviticus 1:9, 4:11). The sole non-sacrificial usage is in Leviticus 11:21, describing the jointed legs of locusts permitted for food.

Etymology

The noun כָּרָע (kârâʻ) is derived from the verb כָּרַע (kāraʻ, H3766), which means 'to kneel, bow, or stoop.' This connection highlights the leg's function in bending or kneeling. The word is related to other Semitic cognates for 'leg' or 'shin.'

Semantic Range

While primarily a physical term, כָּרָע gains theological significance through its ritual use. In the sacrificial system, the handling of the leg—specifically its inclusion in the altar's fire—symbolizes the offering of the creature's strength and mobility wholly to God. The instruction in Exodus 12:9 for the Passover lamb reinforces the concept of the sacrifice being complete and unbroken, prefiguring the wholeness of Christ's sacrifice. Understanding this term enriches the reading of Levitical law by highlighting the detailed obedience required in worship. In ancient Israelite culture, the leg of an animal was a significant portion of meat, often associated with strength. Its specific treatment in sacrifices—separated, washed, and burned—reflected ritual purity and the dedication of the best parts to God. The description of locust legs in Leviticus 11:21 shows precise zoological observation relevant to dietary laws, distinguishing permitted insects by their physical locomotion. שׁוֹק (shôq, H7785) — refers to the thigh or upper leg, often the portion given to priests (e.g., Exodus 29:27). רֶגֶל (regel, H7272) — the common word for foot or leg, referring to the whole limb or specifically the foot, used for walking and standing.

Word Details