### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nâbab**, represented by `{{H5014}}`, describes a state of being **hollow**. It appears 4 times in 4 unique verses in the Bible. The term is used both literally to describe physical objects that are empty inside, and figuratively to characterize a person as foolish or **vain**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H5014}}` carries two distinct applications. Literally, it details the construction of key items for the tabernacle and temple. The altar was to be made **hollow** with boards ([[Exodus 27:8]], [[Exodus 38:7]]), as were the great pillars described in Jeremiah, which were noted to be **hollow** despite their immense size [[Jeremiah 52:21]]. Figuratively, the word is used in Job to describe a **vain** man, one who is empty of wisdom, comparing him to a "wild ass's colt" [[Job 11:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help frame the literal and figurative contexts of being hollow:
* `{{H4196}}` **mizbêach** (altar): This is a central object of worship that was specifically constructed to be **hollow** with boards, as commanded by God [[Exodus 38:7]].
* `{{H5982}}` **ʻammûwd** (pillar): The massive pillars detailed in Jeremiah were described as **hollow** `{{H5014}}`, emphasizing a structural characteristic of these important architectural elements [[Jeremiah 52:21]].
* `{{H376}}` **ʼîysh** (man): This word is directly linked to the figurative meaning of `{{H5014}}`, identifying the kind of person who is considered **vain** or foolish [[Job 11:12]].
* `{{H3823}}` **lâbab** (be wise): This term highlights what the **vain** `{{H5014}}` man lacks. The scripture notes that a vain man *would* be wise, suggesting an empty desire for something he does not possess [[Job 11:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5014}}` is found in its contrast between divinely purposed emptiness and human spiritual vanity.
* **Purposeful Hollowness:** The command to make the altar **hollow** [[Exodus 27:8]] and the description of the temple pillars as such [[Jeremiah 52:21]] suggest that their value and holiness came not from their material substance but from their divine purpose and dedication to God.
* **Human Emptiness:** In contrast, a person who is **hollow** or **vain** is seen as foolish and without substance. [[Job 11:12]] characterizes this individual as being born with the untamed and ignorant nature of a "wild ass's colt."
* **Wisdom vs. Vanity:** The term starkly separates God's design from human failing. While God can ordain physical hollowness for a sacred function, a person who is intellectually and morally **hollow** is deemed vain and foolish.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5014}}` is a word that moves from a simple physical description to a profound spiritual condition. It applies literally to the construction of sacred objects like the altar and pillars, but also serves as a potent metaphor for the man who is foolish and empty of true wisdom. The word illustrates how a state of being **hollow** can either be an element of divine design or a mark of human folly.
TRV