a primitive root; to germinate, i.e. (figuratively) to (causatively, make) flourish; also (of words), to utter; bring forth (fruit), make cheerful, increase.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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