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.
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.
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.
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.
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