### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nôgahh**, represented by `{{H5051}}`, conveys the idea of **brilliancy** or **shining**. It appears 19 times across 19 unique verses in the Bible. The term is used both literally to describe a visible radiance and figuratively for concepts like righteousness and salvation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical texts, `{{H5051}}` is prominently featured in descriptions of divine glory and power. The prophet Ezekiel uses it repeatedly to describe the **brightness** surrounding the appearance of the glory of the LORD, often in conjunction with fire and amber ([[Ezekiel 1:4]], [[Ezekiel 1:27]]). This celestial **brightness** is so overwhelming that it fills the LORD's house [[Ezekiel 10:4]]. The word also serves as a powerful metaphor for spiritual truth and deliverance. The path of the just is compared to a **shining** light that grows brighter [[Proverbs 4:18]], and Zion's righteousness and salvation are prophesied to go forth as **brightness** [[Isaiah 62:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words build upon the theme of divine light and presence:
* `{{H216}}` **'ôwr** (light): This word for illumination or a luminary is often used alongside `{{H5051}}`. It signifies both physical light, as created by God [[Genesis 1:3]], and spiritual light, such as the LORD being a personal **light** and salvation [[Psalms 27:1]].
* `{{H784}}` **'êsh** (fire): Often associated with the divine presence, **fire** accompanies the **brightness** of God's glory in Ezekiel's visions [[Ezekiel 1:13]]. It represents God's power, judgment, and purifying presence, as seen in the pillar of **fire** that guided Israel [[Exodus 13:21]].
* `{{H3519}}` **kâbôwd** (glory): This term for splendor and honor is intrinsically linked to `{{H5051}}`. The **brightness** of the LORD is a manifestation of His **glory** ([[Ezekiel 1:28]], [[Ezekiel 10:4]]). Scripture declares that the **glory** of the LORD has risen, calling His people to shine [[Isaiah 60:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5051}}` is significant, illustrating different facets of God's character and actions.
* **Manifestation of Divine Glory:** The term is crucial for understanding theophanies, where God's presence is made visible. The **brightness** is an outward sign of the immense and unapproachable glory of the LORD, as witnessed by Ezekiel [[Ezekiel 1:28]] and Habakkuk [[Habakkuk 3:4]].
* **Symbol of Righteousness and Hope:** `{{H5051}}` is used figuratively to depict the nature of a righteous life and the promise of salvation. The path of the just is a growing **shining** light [[Proverbs 4:18]], while those in spiritual darkness have no **light** but must trust in God [[Isaiah 50:10]].
* **Indicator of Cosmic Events:** In prophetic literature, the withdrawal of **shining** from celestial bodies like the stars signifies a time of judgment or the Day of the LORD ([[Joel 2:10]], [[Joel 3:15]]). Conversely, God's ultimate redemptive plan includes Him becoming an everlasting light, surpassing the **brightness** of the sun and moon [[Isaiah 60:19]].
### Summary
In summary, **nôgahh** `{{H5051}}` is a multifaceted term that extends beyond simple **brightness**. It captures the awesome visual splendor of God's revealed presence, serves as a metaphor for the moral purity of the righteous, and functions as a sign in eschatological prophecies. From the brilliant fire in Ezekiel's visions to the clear **shining** after rain, the word illustrates the powerful and radiant nature of God's glory and salvation.
TRV