### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nâʼaph**, represented by `{{H5003}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to commit adultery**. Appearing **31 times** across **26 unique verses**, its definition extends figuratively to apostasy, or turning away from God. It is used to label an **adulterer(-ess)** and describe the act of a **woman that breaketh wedlock**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical law and prophecy, `{{H5003}}` carries immense weight. It is one of the prohibitions in the Ten Commandments, stated plainly as "Thou shalt not **commit adultery**" ([[Exodus 20:14]], [[Deuteronomy 5:18]]). The consequences for this act were severe, with the law prescribing that "the **adulterer** and the **adulteress** shall surely be put to death" [[Leviticus 20:10]]. The prophets frequently use the term metaphorically to describe Israel's unfaithfulness to God. For example, God commands Hosea to love an **adulteress** to mirror His own love for the children of Israel who turn to other gods [[Hosea 3:1]]. Similarly, Jeremiah condemns the prophets of Jerusalem who **commit adultery** and walk in lies [[Jeremiah 23:14]], and Ezekiel speaks of Israel committing adultery with their idols [[Ezekiel 23:37]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand on the themes of unfaithfulness, idolatry, and societal decay associated with `{{H5003}}`:
* `{{H2181}}` **zânâh** (to commit adultery; figuratively, to commit idolatry): This word often parallels the figurative use of `{{H5003}}`, describing Israel's spiritual unfaithfulness as playing the harlot and departing from the LORD [[Hosea 1:2]].
* `{{H1168}}` **Baʻal** (Baal, a Phoenician deity): This represents the specific false gods Israel turned to. The act of burning incense to **Baal** is listed alongside stealing, murder, and committing adultery `{{H5003}}` as a grievous sin [[Jeremiah 7:9]].
* `{{H7523}}` **râtsach** (to dash in pieces, i.e. kill (a human being), especially to murder): This word is frequently listed with `{{H5003}}`, highlighting how adultery is part of a larger web of societal corruption that includes murder and theft ([[Hosea 4:2]], [[Jeremiah 7:9]]).
* `{{H898}}` **bâgad** (to act covertly; by implication, to pillage; deal deceitfully (treacherously, unfaithfully)): This term for treacherous dealing is used to describe Judah's unfaithfulness to God after her sister Israel had already been judged for committing adultery `{{H5003}}` [[Jeremiah 3:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5003}}` is profound, illustrating the gravity of breaking covenant.
* **Covenant Betrayal:** Adultery serves as the primary metaphor for Israel's violation of its covenant with God. When Israel commits apostasy, it is framed as them having **committed adultery** [[Jeremiah 3:8]], a betrayal akin to breaking the most intimate of human bonds.
* **Idolatry as Adultery:** The scriptures explicitly connect the act of adultery with idol worship. Israel is described as a wife who has **committed adultery** with stones and with stocks [[Jeremiah 3:9]], and who takes strangers instead of her husband [[Ezekiel 16:32]].
* **Sign of Moral Collapse:** The presence of **adulterers** `{{H5003}}` in the land is a sign of deep-seated corruption. It is listed among a host of sins like sorcery, false swearing, and oppression of the vulnerable that provoke God's judgment ([[Malachi 3:5]], [[Jeremiah 7:9]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5003}}` **nâʼaph** is a powerful term that signifies more than physical infidelity. While its literal meaning is a cornerstone of biblical morality, its figurative application is crucial to understanding the relationship between God and His people. It defines apostasy not as a simple mistake, but as a profound and destructive act of betrayal against a covenant-keeping God.
TRV