זִקְנָה

זִקְנָה

old age

Definition

The Hebrew noun זִקְנָה (ziqnâh) specifically denotes the state or period of old age. It refers to the advanced years of a person's life, often carrying connotations of the physical decline and venerable status associated with that life stage. In its biblical usage, it consistently describes the condition of being old, as seen when Abraham's servant notes that his master's wife Sarah bore a son 'in his old age' (Genesis 24:36). The word also appears in contexts where God's faithfulness is highlighted, such as the plea, 'Do not cast me off in the time of old age' (Psalm 71:9).

Biblical Usage

זִקְנָה is used six times in the Old Testament, primarily in narrative and poetic books. It appears in historical contexts describing kings, like King Asa whose 'feet were diseased in his old age' (1 Kings 15:23). Its most significant usage is in the Psalms and Isaiah, where it frames discussions of God's sustaining care. For example, Psalm 71:18 petitions God not to forsake the psalmist in old age, and Isaiah 46:4 contains God's promise to sustain and carry His people 'even to your old age.'

Etymology

זִקְנָה is the feminine form of the noun זָקֵן (zāqēn, H2205), which means 'old man' or 'elder.' The root זקן (zqn) relates to the concept of being old or bearded. The feminine form זִקְנָה abstracts the quality into the state or condition of old age itself, distinguishing it from the person (an elder).

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it is intimately connected with the biblical theme of God's lifelong faithfulness and covenant care. It moves beyond mere physical description to become a setting for divine promise and human dependence. In Isaiah 46:4, God's commitment to carry and save 'even to your old age' underscores His unchanging character as the sustainer of His people throughout all life's stages. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches reading by highlighting that old age in Scripture is often a context for experiencing and testifying to God's enduring faithfulness. In ancient Israelite culture, old age (זִקְנָה) was generally associated with wisdom, honor, and respect, as longevity was seen as a blessing from God (Proverbs 16:31). However, it was also realistically linked with physical weakness and dependency. This dual perspective—veneration alongside vulnerability—shapes its biblical usage, differing from some modern views that may emphasize only decline or, conversely, may lack the inherent honor given to elders in that society. זָקֵן (zāqēn, H2205) — specifically an old man or elder, a person, not the abstract state. שֵׂיבָה (sêḇâ, H7872) — gray hair, often used poetically as a synonym for old age, emphasizing the visual sign of aging.

Word Details