prostrate, bow down, worship

Definition

To “prostrate” oneself means to lie flat on the ground, usually in submission to a person of authority such as a king or some other powerful person. This same term can also mean to “worship,” referring to the actions of honoring, praising, and obeying God.

• This term often means literally “bow down” or “prostrate oneself” to humbly honor someone.
• We worship God when we serve and honor him, by praising him and obeying him.
• When the Israelites worshiped God, it often included sacrificing an animal on an altar.
• This term can be used both of people who worship Yahweh as the One True God and others who worship false gods.

Translation Suggestions

• The term “worship” could be translated as “bow down to” or “honor and serve” or “honor and obey.”
• In some contexts, it could also be translated as “humbly praise” or “give honor and praise.”

(See also: bow, fear, sacrifice, praise, honor)

Bible References

• Colossians 2:18-19
• Deuteronomy 29:18
• Exodus 3:11-12
• Luke 4:7
• Matthew 2:2
• Matthew 2:8

Examples from the Bible stories

• __13:4 Then God gave them the covenant and said, “I am Yahweh, your God, who saved you from slavery in Egypt. Do not worship__ other gods.”
• __14:2 The Canaanites did not worship or obey God. They worshiped__ false gods and did many evil things.
• __17:6 David wanted to build a temple where all the Israelites could worship__ God and offer him sacrifices.
• __18:12 All of the kings and most of the people of the kingdom of Israel worshiped__ idols.
• __25:7 Jesus replied, “Get away from me, Satan! In God’s word he commands his people, ‘Worship__ only the Lord your God and only serve him.’”
• __26:2 On the Sabbath, he (Jesus) went to the place of worship__.
• __47:1 There they met a woman named Lydia who was a merchant. She loved and worshiped__ God.
• __49:18 God tells you to pray, to study his word, to worship__ him with other Christians, and to tell others what he has done for you.

Word Data

• Strong’s: H5457, H5647, H6087, H7812, G13910, G14790, G21510, G23180, G23230, G23560, G30000, G35110, G43520, G43530, G45730, G45740, G45760