### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **mânôwach**, represented by `{{H4494}}`, signifies a quiet or settled spot, and is translated as a **(place of) rest**. It appears **7 times** in **7 unique verses** in the Bible. The term carries both a concrete meaning of a physical home or landing place and a figurative meaning of a state of quiet and security.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H4494}}` is used to describe both physical and spiritual states. It first appears when the **dove** sent from the ark could find no **rest** for the sole of her foot on the water-covered earth [[Genesis 8:9]]. In a personal context, Naomi sought to find **rest** for her daughter-in-law Ruth, implying the security of a home and family [[Ruth 3:1]]. The term also marks a significant moment when the ark had **rest**, leading David to set up the service of song in the house of the LORD [[1 Chronicles 6:31]]. Conversely, the absence of **rest** is depicted as a state of judgment and affliction for Judah in captivity [[Lamentations 1:3]] and for Israel scattered among the nations [[Deuteronomy 28:65]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illustrate the meaning of a settled place of rest:
* `{{H7280}}` **râgaʻ** (to rest, find ease): This word appears alongside `{{H4494}}`, contrasting the lack of **ease** for Israel in exile [[Deuteronomy 28:65]] with the place where the screech owl shall **rest** [[Isaiah 34:14]].
* `{{H4672}}` **mâtsâʼ** (to find): This verb highlights that rest is something to be sought and acquired. It is used when the dove **found** no rest [[Genesis 8:9]] and when Judah **findeth** no rest [[Lamentations 1:3]].
* `{{H7725}}` **shûwb** (to turn back, return): This word connects the action of returning to a state of rest. The psalmist commands his soul to **return** to its rest [[Psalms 116:7]], and the dove **returned** to the ark when it found no rest [[Genesis 8:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4494}}` is tied to God's provision and judgment.
* **Divine Provision and Judgment:** The LORD is presented as the ultimate source of rest. The soul is commanded to return to its **rest** because the LORD has dealt bountifully [[Psalms 116:7]]. Conversely, the absence of rest is a divine judgment for disobedience, as God gives a "trembling heart" and "sorrow of mind" to His people among the nations [[Deuteronomy 28:65]].
* **A Settled Home:** The word consistently links rest with the security of a home. This is seen in Naomi's desire to find a home for Ruth [[Ruth 3:1]] and in the establishment of worship once the ark of the LORD had **rest** in a permanent place [[1 Chronicles 6:31]].
* **Deliverance from Wandering:** Rest is the antithesis of wandering and persecution. The dove's inability to find **rest** reflects a world not yet delivered from the floodwaters [[Genesis 8:9]]. Similarly, Judah in captivity "findeth no **rest**" because her persecutors have overtaken her [[Lamentations 1:3]], making rest synonymous with safety and peace.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4494}}` conveys a profound concept of security and stability. It moves from a literal, physical "settled spot," like a place for the sole of a foot to land [[Genesis 8:9]], to a figurative home that provides personal security [[Ruth 3:1]]. Ultimately, it points to a spiritual state of quiet confidence and peace that is found only in the LORD [[Psalms 116:7]], the absence of which is a mark of divine judgment [[Deuteronomy 28:65]].
TRV