דַּכָּא

# דַּכָּא (dakkā): Contrite The Hebrew word *dakkā* (H1793A) carries the meaning "contrite"—describing a state of inner brokenness or remorse. Based on its limited biblical attestation of only two occurrences, this term represents a specialized vocabulary choice for expressing spiritual humility or deep regret rather than a common or frequently used concept in Hebrew Scripture. The rarity of this word's appearance suggests it was reserved for particular theological moments or contexts where its specific nuance was valued. While the definition "contrite" indicates an emotional and spiritual condition involving acknowledged wrongdoing or penitence, the minimal textual evidence prevents broader conclusions about how extensively or in what specific situations ancient Hebrew speakers deployed this particular term. The word's existence alongside other possible synonyms for repentance or sorrow indicates that biblical Hebrew possessed a differentiated vocabulary for shades of remorse and humility, even if *dakkā* itself occupied only a narrow niche in that semantic field.