The Hebrew word nûwb, represented by H5107, is a primitive root meaning to germinate or flourish. Figuratively, it is used to describe causing something to flourish, to utter words, bring forth fruit, make cheerful, or to increase. It appears 4 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible, encompassing themes of both material and spiritual productivity.
In its biblical usage, H5107 illustrates different kinds of flourishing. It describes the productivity of the righteous, who "shall still bring forth fruit in old age" Psalms 92:14. It is also used to describe the product of righteous speech, as "The mouth of the just bringeth forth wisdom" Proverbs 10:31. In the context of divine blessing, it is said that "corn shall make the young men cheerful," linking abundance to joy Zechariah 9:17. Conversely, it can refer to the growth of material wealth, which comes with a warning: "if riches increase, set not your heart upon them" Psalms 62:10.
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which something is brought forth or increased:
- H2451 chokmâh (wisdom (in a good sense)): This is what the mouth of the just is said to "bringeth forth" H5107, connecting the idea of flourishing with the utterance of wisdom Proverbs 10:31.
- H2428 chayil (riches, strength, substance): This term for wealth is what can "increase" H5107, highlighting the word's application to material gain, which must be regarded with the proper heart posture Psalms 62:10.
- H1879 dâshên (fat; figuratively, rich, fertile): This word describes the state of the righteous who "bring forth fruit" H5107 in old age, emphasizing the vitality and prosperity that comes from God Psalms 92:14.
- H1715 dâgân (corn, wheat): As an agent of blessing from God, corn is what "shall make the young men cheerful" H5107, tying the concept of flourishing directly to agricultural provision and resulting joy Zechariah 9:17.
The theological weight of H5107 is centered on the source and purpose of flourishing.
- Productive Righteousness: The word demonstrates that a life aligned with God is meant to be productive. The righteous are characterized by their ability to "bring forth fruit" even in old age Psalms 92:14 and to utter wisdom H2451 Proverbs 10:31.
- Divine Blessing: Flourishing is presented as a result of God's "goodness" H2898 and "beauty" H3308. The cheerful state brought on by abundance is a direct consequence of His provision Zechariah 9:17.
- A Test of the Heart: The increase of riches H2428 is a potential spiritual test. Psalms 62:10 uses H5107 to show that while wealth may increase, one must not "trust" H982 in it or "set" H7896 one's heart on it.
In summary, H5107 is a dynamic term that signifies germination, increase, and flourishing. It is not limited to agriculture but extends to the increase of wealth and the productive speech of the wise. The word consistently frames true and lasting fruitfulness as a consequence of a right relationship with God, reminding believers that the blessings that are brought forth should lead to cheerfulness and wisdom, not a misplaced trust in the blessings themselves.
TRV