a primitive root; to glitter; causatively, to illuminate; (en-) lighten, (cause to) shine.
Transliteration:nâgahh
Pronunciation:naw-gah'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root נָגַהּ (nâgahh), Strong's number `{{H5050}}`, is a primitive root carrying the fundamental sense of emitting light or brilliance. Its core meaning encompasses "to glitter" or "to shine," suggesting an inherent quality of luminosity. Crucially, the root also functions causatively, meaning "to illuminate" or "to cause to shine." This dual aspect allows for both an intrinsic state of radiance and an active impartation of light. The semantic range thus extends from a passive sparkle or gleam to an active, transformative act of enlightenment. It describes the emission of light, whether it be a fleeting flash or a more sustained glow, often implying a visible manifestation of splendor or glory.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
While occurrences of נָגַהּ (nâgahh) are not abundant, their contexts illuminate its profound significance. The verb is often employed to describe the radiant presence of the divine or the effulgence associated with divine manifestations. For instance, it can depict the glory of God shining forth, as seen in prophetic visions where the divine presence is characterized by overwhelming light and brilliance. This verb is also used in connection with celestial bodies, such as the sun, moon, or stars, highlighting their natural luminosity and their role in illuminating the earth. Metaphorically, נָגַהּ (nâgahh) can describe the shining of prosperity, the dawn of understanding, or the radiance of joy and divine favor upon individuals or nations. In these contexts, the act of "shining" signifies a breakthrough from darkness, a manifestation of blessing, or a revelation of truth. For example, a passage might speak of the Lord causing His face to shine, implying blessing and favor, or the light of a new day shining forth, signifying hope and renewal.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of light and glory in Hebrew is rich, and נָגַהּ (nâgahh) interacts with several key terms. Most directly related is its noun form, נֹגַהּ (nōgah), Strong's number `{{H5051}}`, which means "brightness," "splendor," or "radiance," often used to describe the effulgence of God's glory or the brilliance of a heavenly host. Other significant terms include:
* אוֹר ('ôr), Strong's number `{{H216}}`: The most general term for "light," encompassing both physical and metaphorical light, often referring to God as the source of light.
* כָּבוֹד (kâbôd), Strong's number `{{H3519}}`: "Glory," "honor," "weight," frequently associated with the visible manifestation of God's presence, which is often depicted as shining or radiant.
* זָהַר (zâhar), Strong's number `{{H2094}}`: "To shine," "to admonish," often used in a causative sense to make bright or to warn.
* בָּרַק (bâraq), Strong's number `{{H1300}}`: "To lighten," "to flash," often referring to the sudden, intense brilliance of lightning or a sword.
While these words share a common conceptual domain, נָגַהּ (nâgahh) specifically emphasizes the *act* of emitting light, whether intrinsically or by causing another to shine, often conveying a sense of active illumination and visible splendor.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of נָגַהּ (nâgahh) is profound, deeply intertwined with the nature of God Himself. God is often depicted as the ultimate source of light, and His presence is characterized by an unapproachable brilliance that "shines." This shining is not merely a physical phenomenon but a manifestation of His holiness, power, and truth. When God causes His face to "shine," it signifies His favor, blessing, and life-giving presence among His people. The concept of shining also speaks to divine revelation, where God's truth illuminates the minds and hearts of humanity, dispelling the darkness of ignorance and sin. In an eschatological sense, the "shining" of God's glory anticipates a future time when His light will fully permeate creation, bringing about ultimate restoration and righteousness. The righteous are sometimes depicted as shining, reflecting the divine light within them, serving as beacons in a darkened world. Thus, נָגַהּ (nâgahh) underscores God's active role as illuminator, guide, and source of all splendor.
### Summary
The Hebrew verb נָגַהּ (nâgahh), Strong's number `{{H5050}}`, conveys the dynamic action of "to glitter," "to shine," and causatively, "to illuminate" or "to cause to shine." Its usage in biblical texts highlights the visible manifestation of light, often describing the radiant glory of God, the luminosity of celestial bodies, or the metaphorical shining of prosperity and divine favor. It stands in close relation to other terms for light and glory, yet distinctly emphasizes the active emission of brilliance. Theologically, נָגָהּ (nâgahh) powerfully articulates God's nature as the source of light and truth, His active presence illuminating His creation, and the ultimate hope of His glorious light dispelling all darkness.
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