lemma נוֹדּ extra dagesh, corrected to נוֹד; (only defective נֹד ); from נוּד; exile; wandering.
Transliteration:nôwd
Pronunciation:node
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma נוֹד (nôwd), Strong's `{{H5112}}`, derives from the verbal root נוּד (nûd) `{{H5110}}`, which conveys the primary sense of "to wander," "to flee," or "to move about restlessly." As a noun, נוֹד encapsulates the state of "exile" or "wandering." It describes a condition of displacement, rootlessness, and often, a forced removal from one's established place or community. The term carries connotations of instability, alienation, and a lack of settled security. The base definition provided indicates its meaning as "exile" or "wandering," emphasizing a state of unsettled movement.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The noun נוֹד `{{H5112}}` appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in [[Genesis 4:16]]. In this pivotal passage, following Cain's murder of Abel and the LORD's pronouncement of judgment, it is written: "And Cain went out from the presence of the LORD, and dwelt in the land of Nod, on the east of Eden." Here, נוֹד is not merely a descriptive noun but transforms into a proper noun, "Nod," designating a geographical location. This "land of Nod" is intrinsically linked to Cain's curse, which declares him to be "a fugitive and a wanderer" (נָע וָנָד, na' wânâd), utilizing the verbal root נוּע `{{H5128}}` and a participle from נוּד `{{H5110}}`. The land itself, therefore, becomes the embodiment of Cain's cursed state: a place of perpetual wandering and exile. His dwelling in the "land of Nod" signifies his banishment from the LORD's immediate presence and from the fertile, settled existence associated with Eden. The name of the land thus powerfully reflects the nature of his punishment and his new, alienated existence.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relative of נוֹד `{{H5112}}` is its verbal root, נוּד (nûd) `{{H5110}}`, meaning "to wander," "to flee," "to shake," or "to show sympathy (by shaking the head)." This root appears in various contexts, often describing physical movement away from a place, or a state of instability. For instance, in [[Jeremiah 4:1]], it refers to a turning or wandering away. The related term נָע (na') `{{H5128}}`, meaning "to waver" or "to totter," frequently appears alongside נָד (nad, a participle from נוּד `{{H5110}}`) as in the phrase "fugitive and wanderer" in [[Genesis 4:12]], [[Genesis 4:14]]. These terms collectively paint a picture of instability, displacement, and a lack of fixed abode. Conceptually, נוֹד is closely tied to themes of banishment, exile, homelessness, and the profound loss of belonging that accompanies separation from one's origins or divine favor.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of נוֹד `{{H5112}}` is profound, particularly given its singular, impactful appearance as the "land of Nod."
1. **Divine Judgment and Consequence of Sin:** The "land of Nod" stands as a stark symbol of divine judgment. It is the place to which Cain is banished as a direct consequence of his fratricide. This exile represents a profound separation from God's presence and the security of a settled life. It underscores the biblical principle that sin leads to alienation, not only from God but also from community and a state of peace.
2. **Alienation and Rootlessness:** The very name "Nod" encapsulates the spiritual and existential state of one who is alienated from God. Cain's life becomes one of perpetual wandering, devoid of a true home or lasting peace. This serves as a powerful illustration of the disruptive and disorienting effects of sin on the human condition.
3. **God's Sovereignty in Judgment:** Even in judgment, God's sovereignty is evident. The "land of Nod" is not a random destination but a place appointed by God for Cain's punishment. Furthermore, God places a mark on Cain for his protection, demonstrating His continued, albeit altered, relationship with humanity even in its rebellion.
### Summary
The Hebrew word נוֹד (nôwd) `{{H5112}}` signifies "exile" or "wandering," deriving from the root נוּד (nûd) `{{H5110}}` meaning "to wander" or "to flee." Its sole biblical appearance is as the "land of Nod" in [[Genesis 4:16]], the place where Cain is banished after murdering Abel. This geographical designation powerfully embodies the spiritual and physical state of displacement and rootlessness. Theologically, the "land of Nod" serves as a potent symbol of divine judgment, illustrating how sin leads to profound alienation from God's presence and a life characterized by unsettled wandering. It underscores the severe consequences of human transgression and God's sovereign response to it.
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