The Hebrew word nâbaʻ, represented by H5042, is a primitive root meaning to gush forth. It appears 11 times across 11 unique verses in the Bible. Its meaning extends from a literal gushing, like a spring, to the figurative utterance of words, whether good or bad, and can even describe the emission of a foul odor.
In biblical usage, H5042 describes a dynamic outpouring. It is used positively to depict the constant declaration of knowledge by creation, where "Day unto day uttereth speech" Psalms 19:2. It also signifies an outpouring of wisdom, as the "wellspring of wisdom" is compared to a flowing brook Proverbs 18:4. Conversely, the word can describe a negative gushing forth. The mouth of the wicked poureth out evil things Proverbs 15:28, and fools poureth out foolishness Proverbs 15:2. In a unique physical sense, it describes how dead flies cause ointment to send forth a stinking savour Ecclesiastes 10:1.
Several related words help define the context of what is being poured out:
- H6310 peh (mouth): The mouth is frequently identified as the source from which words are poured out, whether from the wicked who poureth out evil Proverbs 15:28 or in parables Psalms 78:2.
- H1697 dâbâr (a word): This term for a word or matter is what is often poured forth. Wisdom's reproof leads to the promise, "I will make known my words unto you" Proverbs 1:23.
- H4726 mâqôwr (fountain, wellspring): This word connects nâbaʻ to its literal sense of a source. It is used metaphorically when the wellspring of wisdom is described as a flowing brook Proverbs 18:4.
- H8416 tᵉhillâh (praise): The act of uttering is directly linked to worship. The psalmist resolves that his "lips shall utter praise" once God has taught him His statutes Psalms 119:171.
The theological weight of H5042 is significant in its portrayal of speech and its source.
- The Source of Words: The word highlights that speech is an outpouring from a source. The mouth of the righteous pours forth what is studied, while the mouth of the wicked gushes out evil and foolishness (Proverbs 15:28, Proverbs 15:2).
- Divine Revelation and Wisdom: The word is used to describe the communication of divine truth. Creation itself continuously uttereth speech, showing knowledge Psalms 19:2. Wisdom also promises to pour out her spirit and make her words known to those who turn at her reproof Proverbs 1:23.
- The Power of Testimony: The act of "abundantly uttering" is connected to joyful testimony and praise. Believers are to abundantly utter the memory of God's great goodness and sing of His righteousness Psalms 145:7, suggesting a profuse and unrestrained proclamation.
In summary, H5042 nâbaʻ is a dynamic verb that illustrates the concept of gushing forth. It is not limited to a single context, describing everything from the constant speech of creation Psalms 19:2 to the corrupt words of the wicked Proverbs 15:28 and the joyful praise of the righteous Psalms 145:7. The word carries the core idea that what is inside—be it wisdom, folly, or praise—will inevitably pour out, serving as a powerful reminder of the connection between the heart and the mouth.
TRV