a primitive root; to refuse, forbid, dissuade, or neutralize; break, disallow, discourage, make of none effect.
Transliteration:nûwʼ
Pronunciation:noo
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root `{{H5106}}` (nûwʼ) is presented as a primitive root, indicating a foundational and perhaps ancient concept within the language. Its core semantic range revolves around the active negation or nullification of something. The primary definitions provided include "to refuse," "forbid," "dissuade," and "neutralize." Further elaborations extend this to "break," "disallow," "discourage," and "make of none effect." This indicates a spectrum of meaning from an overt act of prohibition or denial to a more subtle, yet equally potent, act of rendering something ineffective or void. It describes an action that prevents an intended outcome, obstructs a path, or undermines an existing state. The emphasis is on an active intervention that brings about a cessation, a prevention, or an undoing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
While `{{H5106}}` is not among the most frequently occurring verbs in the Hebrew Bible, its presence in various contexts underscores its significant implications. When applied to divine action, it highlights God's sovereign power to "disallow" or "make of none effect" the plans and intentions of humanity, especially those that stand in opposition to His divine will. This demonstrates His ultimate control over history and the futility of human rebellion against His decrees. For instance, God might "neutralize" or "break" the counsel of the wicked, ensuring that their schemes do not prevail.
In human contexts, `{{H5106}}` can describe the act of one person "refusing" or "forbidding" another, often in matters of authority or moral choice. A person might "dissuade" another from a course of action, whether for good or ill. The term also carries the weight of "discouraging," implying an effort to weaken resolve or diminish hope. This active verb underscores the power dynamics at play in biblical narratives, whether it is the exercise of legitimate authority, the pursuit of manipulative influence, or the steadfast refusal to compromise one's principles. The word consistently points to an intentional act designed to prevent, obstruct, or negate.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of `{{H5106}}` intersects with several other Hebrew terms and theological concepts. It relates to verbs of negation and prevention, such as those conveying "to hinder" (e.g., `{{H4513}}`), "to prevent" (e.g., `{{H6923}}`), or "to abolish" (e.g., `{{H5493}}`). Conceptually, it stands in opposition to words signifying permission, allowance, establishment, or confirmation.
Furthermore, `{{H5106}}` is closely tied to the biblical concept of divine sovereignty, where God's ultimate authority means He can "make of none effect" any human design that opposes His purpose. It also touches upon human agency and responsibility, as individuals are depicted as having the capacity to "refuse" or "dissuade" others, thereby influencing outcomes. The word's usage can also illuminate the dynamics of spiritual warfare, where forces of evil seek to "discourage" righteousness or "break" the covenant relationship between God and His people.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H5106}}` is profound, particularly in its implications for divine sovereignty and human freedom. When God is the subject of this verb, it powerfully affirms His omnipotence and providential control. He is the one who can "make of none effect" human pride and rebellion, ensuring that His ultimate plan will prevail regardless of opposition. This provides a deep sense of security and trust for the believer, knowing that no human or demonic force can ultimately "forbid" or "neutralize" God's redemptive purposes.
Conversely, when humans are the subject, `{{H5106}}` highlights the weight of moral choice and the power of human will. The ability to "refuse" or "forbid" can be an act of obedience to God (e.g., refusing evil) or an act of rebellion (e.g., refusing God's command). The capacity to "discourage" or "dissuade" others carries significant ethical implications, underscoring the responsibility inherent in human influence. Ultimately, the word points to the active dynamic of opposition and nullification that pervades the biblical narrative, reflecting the ongoing tension between divine will and human action, and between good and evil.
### Summary
The Hebrew root `{{H5106}}` (nûwʼ) encapsulates the active concept of negation, prevention, or nullification. Its semantic range includes "to refuse, forbid, dissuade, neutralize, break, disallow, discourage, and make of none effect." In biblical contexts, it powerfully describes God's sovereign ability to thwart human plans that oppose His will, and also illuminates human agency in actively preventing or discouraging actions. Theologically, `{{H5106}}` underscores God's ultimate control over all things and the profound responsibility inherent in human choices to refuse or dissuade. It is a word that speaks to the dynamic interplay of will and power in the divine-human relationship and the ongoing struggle against that which seeks to undermine divine truth.
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