### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nâʼâh**, represented by `{{H4999}}`, describes a **home** or, figuratively, a **pasture**. It appears 12 times across 12 unique verses. The term carries a dual meaning, referring to a physical dwelling such as a **habitation** or **house**, as well as to a place of sustenance and life, like a **pasture** or **pleasant place**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The context of `{{H4999}}` shifts dramatically between themes of divine blessing and judgment. In its most serene usage, it depicts a place of peaceful provision, as when the LORD makes his people "to lie down in green **pastures**" [[Psalms 23:2]]. Conversely, it often represents a place subject to divine wrath. The Lord is shown to have "swallowed up all the **habitations** of Jacob" [[Lamentations 2:2]] without pity. Similarly, the **habitations** of the shepherds are described as mourning in response to God's judgment [[Amos 1:2]], and enemies conspire to take "the **houses** of God in possession" [[Psalms 83:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the settings where **nâʼâh** is found:
* `{{H4057}}` **midbâr** (wilderness): This term often specifies the location, as in "the **pastures** of the **wilderness**" [[Joel 2:22]], highlighting both the desolation and the potential for life in such areas.
* `{{H7462}}` **râʻâh** (shepherd): This word connects `{{H4999}}` to pastoral life, directly linking the dwelling places to their caretakers, as seen when the "habitations of the **shepherds**" mourn [[Amos 1:2]].
* `{{H3001}}` **yâbêsh** (dried up): This verb describes the state of the "pleasant places" under a curse. In [[Jeremiah 23:10]], these locations are **dried up** as a direct result of the people's sin.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H4999}}` is demonstrated through its connection to God's blessing and judgment.
* **Divine Provision:** As a place of rest and sustenance, **nâʼâh** symbolizes God's tender care for His people. He leads them to "green **pastures**" [[Psalms 23:2]], providing for their needs as a shepherd does for his flock. This imagery is echoed by the promise that the **pastures** will spring forth and the trees will bear fruit [[Joel 2:22]].
* **The Land's Condition as a Moral Indicator:** The state of the **pastures** or **pleasant places** often reflects the spiritual health of the people. In a land full of adulterers, the **pleasant places** are "dried up" and mourn [[Jeremiah 23:10]]. The prosperity or desolation of these habitations is tied directly to obedience.
* **Objects of Judgment:** When God's wrath is kindled, the "peaceable **habitations**" are not exempt. They are "cut down" because of the LORD's fierce anger [[Jeremiah 25:37]] and devoured by fire [[Joel 1:19]]. The destruction of these dwellings signifies the profound consequences of breaking covenant [[Lamentations 2:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4999}}` **nâʼâh** is a versatile term that encapsulates both the security of a **home** and the life-giving nature of a **pasture**. Its biblical usage illustrates a powerful theological principle: the places of dwelling and sustenance are directly impacted by the relationship between humanity and God. Whether they are lush and peaceful [[Psalms 23:2]] or dried up and desolate [[Jeremiah 23:10]], these habitations serve as a physical reflection of spiritual realities.
TRV