### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nâʼveh**, represented by `{{H5000}}`, conveys a sense of what is **suitable, or beautiful**. Its definition includes the terms **becometh, comely, seemly**. Appearing **9 times** in **9 unique verses**, this word bridges the gap between aesthetic beauty and situational appropriateness, describing things that are fitting or lovely in their context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H5000}}` is used to describe both physical beauty and proper order. In the Song of Solomon, it repeatedly affirms physical attractiveness, describing a person as **comely** [[Song of Solomon 1:5]], a countenance as **comely** [[Song of Solomon 2:14]], and speech as **comely** [[Song of Solomon 4:3]]. It is also used to compare beauty to a city, as in "**comely** as Jerusalem" [[Song of Solomon 6:4]]. In contrast, the Psalms and Proverbs use the word to define what is fitting or appropriate. Praise `{{H8416}}` is described as **comely** for the upright [[Psalms 33:1]] and in worship of God [[Psalms 147:1]]. Conversely, delight [[Proverbs 19:10]], honor [[Proverbs 26:1]], and excellent speech [[Proverbs 17:7]] are all described as not **seemly** for a fool, illustrating a sense of moral and social propriety.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to clarify the meaning of `{{H5000}}` in its various contexts:
* `{{H3303}}` **yâpheh**: This word for **beautiful** is used directly alongside `{{H5000}}` to emphasize aesthetic appeal, as when the beloved is called "**beautiful**... **comely** as Jerusalem" [[Song of Solomon 6:4]].
* `{{H8416}}` **tᵉhillâh**: Meaning **praise**, this word is what is described as being "comely" or appropriate. This highlights that certain actions, like praise, have a fitting place in the life of the righteous [[Psalms 33:1]].
* `{{H3477}}` **yâshâr**: This term for the **upright** or righteous identifies the people for whom praise is comely. It establishes a moral context, showing that what is "seemly" is connected to one's character and standing [[Psalms 33:1]].
* `{{H8588}}` **taʻănûwg**: Meaning **delight** or luxury, this is one of the things described as "not seemly" for a fool, contrasting what is appropriate for the wise versus the foolish [[Proverbs 19:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5000}}` is found in its connection between beauty and rightness.
* **The Beauty of Worship:** The declaration that praise is **comely** suggests a divine aesthetic. Worship is not merely a duty but a beautiful and fitting response from creation to the Creator. It is described as both good and pleasant [[Psalms 147:1]].
* **Moral Appropriateness:** The concept that honor is not **seemly** for a fool [[Proverbs 26:1]] or that excellent speech does not **becometh** him [[Proverbs 17:7]] underscores a God-ordained moral order. It implies that certain blessings and characteristics are intrinsically linked to wisdom and righteousness, not folly.
* **Affirmation of Created Beauty:** Its frequent use in the Song of Solomon validates physical and relational beauty as good. Descriptions like a **comely** countenance [[Song of Solomon 2:14]] or being **comely** like Jerusalem [[Song of Solomon 6:4]] frame beauty as a positive, God-given attribute.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5000}}` is a nuanced term that encompasses both what is visually appealing and what is morally or situationally fitting. Whether describing the attractiveness of a loved one in Song of Solomon or the appropriateness of praise for the upright in the Psalms, **nâʼveh** connects the concepts of beauty and propriety. It illustrates that in God's design, there is a profound beauty in things being in their right and proper place.
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