כְּלִמָּה

כְּלִמָּה

disgrace

Definition

כְּלִמָּה (kᵉlimmâh) refers to a state of public disgrace, shame, or humiliation, often resulting from moral failure, defeat, or unjust accusation. It describes the profound social and personal dishonor experienced when one's reputation is ruined or one is exposed to contempt (Psalm 44:15, Psalm 69:7). In some contexts, it carries the sense of 'confusion' or 'discomfiture,' as when the wicked are ultimately put to shame (Job 20:3). The word is also used in prayers for deliverance, where the psalmist asks that his enemies be clothed with shame while he is vindicated (Psalm 35:26, Psalm 71:13).

Biblical Usage

This noun appears primarily in poetic and wisdom literature, especially in the Psalms (15 occurrences) and Job. It is often used in laments, where the speaker describes being overwhelmed by shame due to enemies or personal suffering (Psalm 69:19). It also appears in contexts of national defeat and humiliation (Psalm 44:15). A key pattern is its use in imprecatory prayers, where the petitioner asks God to turn shame back upon adversaries (Psalm 109:29).

Etymology

Derived from the root כלם (kālam, H3637), meaning 'to be humiliated,' 'put to shame,' or 'dishonored.' The noun form כְּלִמָּה intensifies the sense of a lasting state or condition of disgrace. Cognates appear in other Semitic languages with similar meanings related to shame and reproach.

Semantic Range

The concept of כְּלִמָּה is theologically significant as it touches on human dignity, justice, and vindication. In the biblical worldview, shame is not merely a private emotion but a public reality tied to one's standing in the community and before God. The Psalms often transform personal shame into a cry for divine justice, trusting that God will ultimately vindicate the righteous and shame the wicked (Psalm 35:26). Understanding this Hebrew term enriches reading by highlighting the profound hope that God reverses human disgrace, a theme fulfilled in Christ who bore our shame (Hebrews 12:2). In ancient Israelite culture, honor and shame were central social values. כְּלִמָּה represented a severe loss of social standing, often involving public ridicule or defeat. This shame could be incurred through personal sin, military loss, or false accusation, and it affected not just the individual but their family and community. It differs from some modern, individualistic concepts of shame by being intensely public and communal. בּוּשָׁה (bûšâh, H954) — focuses more on the inward feeling of shame or disappointment. חֶרְפָּה (ḥerpâh, H2781) — emphasizes 'reproach' or 'taunt,' often from others. קָלוֹן (qālôn, H7036) — denotes disgrace, often with a sense of lightness or vileness.

Word Details