### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nahălôl**, represented by `{{H5097}}`, refers to a **pasture** or **bush**. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in a single verse in the entire Bible. Its singular use provides a specific and vivid detail within a larger prophetic scene.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H5097}}` is in [[Isaiah 7:19]], which describes a comprehensive invasion or plague settling upon the land. The verse states that an overwhelming force will "come, and shall rest all of them in the desolate valleys... and upon all thorns, and upon all **bushes**." In this context, the **bush** is listed as one of several types of rugged and uncultivated terrain that will be completely occupied, signifying the pervasive nature of the coming judgment.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H5097}}` is illuminated by the words surrounding it in its only appearance:
* `{{H5117}}` **nûwach**: This primitive root means **to rest, i.e. settle down**. In [[Isaiah 7:19]], it describes the action of the invading swarm, which will **rest** upon the bushes, indicating a thorough and complete settling.
* `{{H5158}}` **nachal**: Defined as **a stream, especially a winter torrent; (by implication) a (narrow) valley**, this word describes one of the locations that will be filled, running parallel to the thorns and bushes [[Isaiah 7:19]].
* `{{H5285}}` **naʻătsûwts**: This word, meaning **probably a brier; by implication, a thicket of thorny bushes; thorn**, is used immediately before **nahălôl**. The pairing emphasizes that even the most unwelcoming and wild vegetation will be overtaken [[Isaiah 7:19]].
### Theological Significance
Though appearing only once, `{{H5097}}` contributes to a significant prophetic theme within its passage.
* **Total Occupation:** The use of "all" before **bushes** in [[Isaiah 7:19]] underscores the theme of complete and inescapable judgment. No feature of the landscape, no matter how minor or wild, will be left untouched by the settling swarm.
* **Symbol of Wild Terrain:** Paired with desolate valleys `{{H1327}}`, holes of the rocks `{{H5357}}`, and thorns `{{H5285}}`, the **bush** helps paint a picture of a land being overrun. These are not cultivated fields but the untamed parts of the environment, showing the scope of the event.
* **A Place of Judgment:** The invaders are described as coming `{{H935}}` to rest `{{H5117}}` upon the bushes. This turns a common feature of the natural landscape into a location that hosts a divine judgment, showing that the judgment will permeate every aspect of the land.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5097}}` is a highly specific term whose meaning is derived entirely from its singular context in [[Isaiah 7:19]]. While simply meaning **bush** or **pasture**, it functions as a key detail in a prophecy of overwhelming occupation. It illustrates how every part of the natural world, even the common **bush**, can be used to communicate the totality of God's judgment.
TRV