### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nâ'**, represented by `{{H4995}}`, refers to something that is **raw** or uncooked. Its base definition describes that which is tough and uncooked, specifically flesh. This highly specific term appears only **1 times** in **1 unique verses**, making its single usage particularly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H4995}}` is in the instructions for the first Passover. In [[Exodus 12:9]], the Israelites are commanded regarding the sacrificial lamb, "Eat not of it **raw**, nor sodden at all with water, but roast with fire." This directive establishes a clear prohibition against consuming the consecrated animal in an unprepared state. The term stands in direct opposition to the acceptable methods of preparation: being "sodden" (boiled) with water or "roast" with fire, with the latter being the commanded method for the Passover sacrifice.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H4995}}` is defined by its relationship to words describing food preparation:
* `{{H1310}}` **bâshal** (to boil up, seethe): This is one of the cooking methods forbidden for the Passover lamb but permitted for other sacrifices and meals, such as boiling flesh at the tabernacle door [[Leviticus 8:31]] or seething pottage [[2 Kings 4:38]]. It is explicitly contrasted with eating something raw.
* `{{H6748}}` **tsâlîy** (roasted): This is the divinely mandated preparation for the Passover lamb [[Exodus 12:9]]. The term specifies that the flesh must be cooked with fire, setting it apart from being either raw or boiled.
* `{{H398}}` **ʼâkal** (to eat): This verb governs the entire command. The prohibition is specifically about how the lamb is to be eaten, linking the state of the food directly to the act of consumption. The Bible uses this term both for literal eating [[Genesis 2:17]] and figuratively for internalizing something, such as God's words [[Jeremiah 15:16]].
### Theological Significance
While rare, the theological weight of `{{H4995}}` is found in its precise ceremonial context.
* **Obedience in Worship:** The prohibition against eating the lamb **raw** underscores that obedience to God extends to the fine details of worship. The method of preparation was not a matter of culinary choice but of divine command.
* **Symbolism of Transformation:** To leave the sacrifice **raw** would be to leave it in its natural, unprepared state. The commanded alternative, roasting with **fire** `{{H784}}`, connects the sacrifice to a key biblical symbol of God's presence, power, and refining action ([[Exodus 13:21]], [[Zechariah 13:9]]).
* **Setting Apart:** The specific rules, including the ban on eating it **raw**, distinguished the Passover meal as a holy and unique event, set apart from ordinary meals or the practices of other peoples.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4995}}` is a term whose meaning is sharpened by its singular, powerful context. As **raw**, it represents a forbidden state for the Passover sacrifice, an offering that required a specific, transformative preparation by fire. Its use in [[Exodus 12:9]] serves as a potent reminder that holiness and obedience are intertwined, demanding adherence to God's instructions in every detail of worship.
TRV