A noun referring to the hollow or palm of the hand, the sole of the foot, or any hollow/cupped surface. It denotes the concave inner surface — the part of the hand that holds, catches, or offers. The word appears in contexts of prayer (lifting palms), work, carrying, and the measuring of God's incomprehensible power.
Kaph is rich with gesture theology. Lifting the palms (or hands) toward heaven in prayer is one of Scripture's most universal worship postures — it simultaneously expresses emptiness (I have nothing to offer), receptivity (I am open to receive), and supplication (hear my plea). The incomprehensibility of God's power is expressed by the rhetorical question: who has measured the waters in the hollow of his hand? The human kaph that can barely cup a few ounces cannot begin to contain what God holds with ease. The same hand that holds all creation can also be pierced for our redemption.