Original Word: צנַע
Part of Speech: Verb
Transliteration: tsana`
Pronunciation: tsaw-nah'
Phonetic Spelling: (tsaw-nah')
Definition: To be humble, to be modest
Meaning: to humiliate

humbly, lowly

A primitive root; to humiliate -- humbly, lowly.

Word Origin
a prim. root
Definition
to be modest or humble
NASB Translation
humbly (1).

[צָנַע] verb be modest, humble (perhaps properly be retired, Late Hebrew Hiph`il keep close, reserve, preserve, so ᵑ7 אַצְנַע; צְנִיעַ retiring, modest); —

Hiph`il Infinitive absolute הַצְנֵעַ לֶכֶת Micah 6:8 a making humble to walk = shewing a humble walk (with God).

[צָנוּעַ]

adjective modest (on formation compare Ba^{BN § 31 d}); — plural צְנוּעִים Proverbs 11:9 (see Toy; opposed to זָדוֺן).

Word Origin: A primitive root

Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: • G2092 (ἑτοιμος, hetoimos): While not a direct equivalent, this Greek term relates to being prepared or ready, often implying a readiness that comes from a humble and obedient heart.
• G5011 (ταπεινός, tapeinos): This Greek word directly corresponds to the concept of humility, denoting lowliness of mind and spirit. It is used in the New Testament to describe the attitude of Christ and the expected demeanor of believers, emphasizing the virtue of humility as a key aspect of Christian character.

In summary, צנַע (tsana') encapsulates the biblical call to humility, urging individuals to adopt a posture of lowliness and submission before God, which is echoed in the New Testament through the Greek concept of ταπεινός (tapeinos).

Usage: The verb צנַע (tsana') is used in the context of humility, often implying a voluntary act of humbling oneself or being brought low. It is associated with modesty and humility before God.

Context: The Hebrew verb צנַע (tsana') is a primitive root that conveys the idea of humility and modesty. It is used in the context of one's relationship with God, emphasizing the importance of a humble heart and spirit. The term suggests an attitude of submission and lowliness, often in contrast to pride or arrogance. In the Hebrew Bible, humility is a valued trait, and those who humble themselves before God are often depicted as receiving His favor and guidance.

The concept of humility is central to the biblical narrative, where it is often linked with righteousness and wisdom. The act of humbling oneself is seen as a prerequisite for receiving divine wisdom and understanding. This humility is not merely an outward expression but a deep-seated attitude of the heart, reflecting a recognition of one's own limitations and the greatness of God.

In the prophetic literature, humility is frequently called for as a response to God's majesty and holiness. The prophets urge the people to walk humbly with their God, highlighting the importance of a contrite and humble spirit in maintaining a right relationship with the Divine.

וְהַצְנֵ֥עַ והצנע צְנוּעִ֥ים צנועים ṣə·nū·‘îm ṣənū‘îm tzenuIm vehatzNea wə·haṣ·nê·a‘ wəhaṣnêa‘Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts