### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nᵉgôhâh**, represented by `{{H5054}}`, means **splendor** or **brightness**. As a feminine form of a related word for splendor, it appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, making its single usage highly significant. It denotes a radiant brilliance or magnificent light.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H5054}}` is in [[Isaiah 59:9]], where it is used to describe a hoped-for, but absent, state of being. The verse reads, "...we wait for light, but behold obscurity; for **brightness**, but we walk in darkness." In this context, **brightness** is positioned as the direct opposite of the "darkness" `{{H653}}` and "obscurity" `{{H2822}}` the people are experiencing. Its absence is linked to the fact that judgment `{{H4941}}` is far from them and justice `{{H6666}}` does not overtake `{{H5381}}` them.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help frame the meaning of **nᵉgôhâh** by establishing the powerful biblical contrast between light and darkness.
* `{{H216}}` **ʼôwr** (light): This word refers to illumination or a luminary. It is a foundational concept, first appearing when God says, "Let there be **light**" [[Genesis 1:3]], establishing light as a primary element of creation and divine order.
* `{{H2822}}` **chôshek** (darkness): Defined as the dark, it can figuratively represent misery, destruction, and wickedness. It is often set in opposition to light, as when the people who walked in **darkness** see a great light `{{H216}}` [[Isaiah 9:2]].
* `{{H6960}}` **qâvâh** (wait): This term means to expect or tarry. The action of waiting is central to the context of `{{H5054}}`, as the people **wait** for brightness but do not receive it [[Isaiah 59:9]]. This same word is used more hopefully elsewhere, promising that those who **wait** upon the LORD will renew their strength [[Isaiah 40:31]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5054}}` comes from its unique placement within a broader biblical theme.
* **Symbol of Divine Favor:** The concept of **brightness** is linked to a state of blessing and righteousness. In its only appearance, it is something waited for `{{H6960}}` alongside light `{{H216}}`, symbolizing a desired state of divine presence and deliverance that remains out of reach.
* **The Consequence of Injustice:** The context of [[Isaiah 59:9]] explicitly connects the absence of **brightness** to a state where judgment `{{H4941}}` is far and justice `{{H6666}}` is lacking. This suggests that spiritual darkness and a lack of splendor are consequences of a society's moral and spiritual condition.
* **Contrast with Darkness:** The word's meaning is sharpened by its direct opposition to both `obscurity {{H2822}}` and `darkness {{H653}}`. This pairing reinforces a central biblical metaphor where light represents God, truth, and life, while darkness represents sin, ignorance, and death.
### Summary
In summary, while **nᵉgôhâh** `{{H5054}}` is one of the rarest words in the biblical text, its single use offers a profound insight. It serves as a powerful symbol for the splendor and radiant presence of God that is desperately awaited. Its context in [[Isaiah 59:9]] poignantly illustrates the principle that true **brightness** is inseparable from the presence of divine justice and righteousness, and its absence defines a state of spiritual gloom and despair.
TRV