The Hebrew adjective nakeh describes one who is smitten, stricken, lame, or contrite. It refers to a person who has been physically or spiritually struck down — whether through injury, disability, or the humbling work of God in the heart. The word captures the state of brokenness that results from being struck.
In the Old Testament, nakeh carries both physical and spiritual dimensions. Physically, it describes those who are disabled or wounded. Spiritually, it describes the condition of a contrite heart — one that has been broken before God. This brokenness is paradoxically valued by God, who declares that He dwells with those who are contrite and lowly in spirit (Isaiah 57:15). Mephibosheth, Jonathan's lame son whom David honored, exemplifies how God's grace reaches the smitten and broken, restoring them to a place of honor at the king's table.