### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nûwṭ**, represented by `{{H5120}}`, means **to quake; be moved**. This specific and powerful term appears only **1 time** in the entire Bible, highlighting a unique and significant event. Its singular usage describes a profound physical reaction of the earth itself to the presence and authority of God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H5120}}` is found in [[Psalms 99:1]], where the psalmist declares the absolute sovereignty of God. The verse states, "The LORD reigneth; let the people tremble: he sitteth between the cherubims; let the earth **be moved**." In this context, the word portrays the entire planet quaking in response to the enthronement of its Creator. It is not a random tremor but a direct acknowledgment of divine power, occurring in parallel with the trembling of the peoples.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{H5120}}` is amplified by words used alongside it in its single context:
* `{{H7264}}` **râgaz**: a primitive root; to quiver (with any violent emotion, especially anger or fear); be afraid, stand in awe, disquiet, fall out, fret, move, provoke, quake, rage, shake, tremble, trouble, be wroth. In [[Psalms 99:1]], the people are called to **tremble** `{{H7264}}` as the earth is **moved** `{{H5120}}`, linking the human response of awe and fear with the physical reaction of creation. This same word is used to describe the heavens and earth shaking in response to God's wrath [[Isaiah 13:13]].
* `{{H776}}` **ʼerets**: from an unused root probably meaning to be firm; the earth (at large, or partitively a land). This is the very object that is **moved** `{{H5120}}` in [[Psalms 99:1]]. As the foundation of the physical world, created by God [[Genesis 1:1]], its quaking demonstrates that even the most stable elements of creation are subject to His power and react to His presence.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5120}}` is centered on the majesty of God and creation's response to Him.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The primary context for this word is the declaration, "The LORD reigneth" [[Psalms 99:1]]. The earth's quaking is not an act of chaos but a sign of submission to its rightful King.
* **Creation's Acknowledgment:** The term illustrates that all of creation, not just humanity, responds to the presence of God. The physical world itself is portrayed as reacting with awe, parallel to the people who are called to **tremble** `{{H7264}}`.
* **Manifestation of Power:** The act of the earth being **moved** serves as a tangible display of God's immense power, before whom nothing can remain static or unmoved. This reinforces the idea that God's authority is absolute over the entire cosmos.
### Summary
In summary, though used only once, `{{H5120}}` provides a vivid and focused image of cosmic submission. The word **nûwṭ** encapsulates the idea that the physical earth quakes in response to the enthroned glory of God. It functions as a powerful testament to the Lord's absolute sovereignty, demonstrating that when the Creator reveals His reign, the whole of creation, from its people to its very foundations, cannot help but respond in awe and motion.
TRV