### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **niʼuph**, represented by `{{H5004}}`, refers to **adultery**. It appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, making it a specific and potent term used in prophetic warnings. Its base definition is simply **adultery**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H5004}}` is found exclusively in prophetic condemnations of Israel's unfaithfulness. In Jeremiah, God declares, "I have seen thine **adulteries**" [[Jeremiah 13:27]], grouping this sin with neighings, lewdness, and abominations committed on the hills. Similarly, Ezekiel employs the term when describing a woman "old in **adulteries**" [[Ezekiel 23:43]], highlighting a state of persistent and aged corruption. Both instances use the word to describe a visible and offensive state of spiritual infidelity.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words appear alongside `{{H5004}}`, creating a picture of comprehensive corruption:
* `{{H2154}}` **zimmâh** (heinous crime, lewdness): This term denotes not just an act, but a wicked plan or purpose, and is used to describe the **lewdness** of Jerusalem's whoredom [[Jeremiah 13:27]].
* `{{H2184}}` **zᵉnûwth** (whoredom): Often appearing with `{{H5004}}`, this word points to figurative infidelity and idolatry, as seen in the phrase "the lewdness of thy **whoredom**" [[Jeremiah 13:27]].
* `{{H4684}}` **matshâlâh** (neighing): Used metaphorically to describe lustful cries, this word is paired with adulteries to illustrate the shameless and animalistic nature of Israel's sin [[Jeremiah 13:27]].
* `{{H8251}}` **shiqqûwts** (abominable filth, detestable thing): This word signifies something disgusting and idolatrous, listed as one of the **abominations** God has witnessed [[Jeremiah 13:27]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5004}}` is tied to its use as a powerful metaphor for spiritual betrayal.
* **Symbol of Covenant Breaking:** **Adultery** serves as the primary symbol for Israel's violation of its covenant with God. The sin is presented not merely as a moral failing but as profound infidelity against their divine partner.
* **A Visible and Public Offense:** God is portrayed as having directly **seen** `{{H7200}}` these acts, which are committed openly "on the hills in the fields" [[Jeremiah 13:27]]. This highlights that the sin is not hidden but is a public and shameless display of rebellion.
* **Habitual Corruption:** The description of being "old in **adulteries**" [[Ezekiel 23:43]] suggests a deep-rooted, long-practiced unfaithfulness that has become a defining characteristic, making cleansing difficult.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5004}}` is a highly specific term for **adultery** used by the prophets to condemn Israel's spiritual unfaithfulness. Though used only twice, its context alongside terms for lewdness, whoredom, and abominations paints a stark picture of a covenant relationship broken by persistent and flagrant sin. It powerfully illustrates how personal betrayal is used as a metaphor for the nation's rejection of God.
TRV