a primitive root; to slumber (from drowsiness); sleep, slumber.
Transliteration:nûwm
Pronunciation:noom
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root H5123 (נוּם, *nûwm*) is a primitive root primarily signifying "to slumber" or "to doze." Unlike deeper sleep, which might be conveyed by `{{H3462}}` (יָשֵׁן, *yashen*), H5123 often implies a state of light sleep, drowsiness, or a temporary lapse into unconsciousness. Its semantic range extends from the literal act of falling asleep due to weariness to a metaphorical representation of spiritual lethargy, idleness, or a lack of vigilance. The term suggests a state of being less than fully awake or alert, whether physically or spiritually. In its literal sense, it describes the onset of sleep or a light, interrupted sleep. Metaphorically, it denotes a state of spiritual dullness, complacency, or moral inaction, where one is oblivious to impending danger or divine call.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of H5123 in the Hebrew Bible reveal its nuanced application:
1. **Physical Slumber:** In several instances, nûwm refers to literal, physical slumber, often associated with weariness or a lack of diligence. For example, in [[Proverbs 6:10]] and [[Proverbs 24:33]], the phrase "a little slumber" (מְעַט תְּנוּמוֹת, *m'at t'numot*) is used to warn against idleness and its consequence of poverty. The context here is a practical wisdom warning against laziness that leads to economic ruin. Similarly, in [[Nahum 3:18]], the "shepherds of Assyria slumber" (נוּמוּ רֹעֶיךָ, *numu ro'eykha*), depicting their leadership as negligent and ineffective, leading to the nation's downfall. This highlights the negative consequences of those in authority being spiritually or physically asleep at their post.
2. **Divine Vigilance:** Perhaps the most profound use of H5123 is in [[Psalm 121:3-4]], where it is emphatically denied of God: "He will not allow your foot to slip; He who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep" (לֹא יָנוּם וְלֹא יִישָׁן שׁוֹמֵר יִשְׂרָאֵל, *lo yanum v'lo yishan shomer yisra'el*). This double negative, using both H5123 (slumber) and `{{H3462}}` (sleep), powerfully asserts God's unceasing watchfulness, unwavering care, and absolute faithfulness. It is a foundational theological statement about divine providence and constancy, contrasting sharply with human frailty and the need for rest.
3. **Spiritual Apathy/Lethargy:** While less explicit than in other words, nûwm can carry a subtle connotation of spiritual dullness or unresponsiveness, especially when contrasted with the vigilance of God. The warnings in Proverbs about "slumber" can be extended beyond mere physical laziness to a spiritual complacency that prevents one from heeding wisdom or divine instruction.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding H5123 is enhanced by examining its relationship with other Hebrew terms and concepts:
* **`{{H3462}}` (יָשֵׁן, *yashen*):** This verb means "to sleep deeply." While nûwm denotes a lighter form of sleep or drowsiness, yashen refers to a profound, often unconscious, state of sleep. The pair in [[Psalm 121:3-4]] ("neither slumber nor sleep") creates a merism, emphasizing the absolute wakefulness of God.
* **`{{H7901}}` (שֵׁנָה, *shenah*):** This is the noun for "sleep" or "slumber." It is the state that nûwm describes.
* **Vigilance and Watchfulness:** The concept of being awake and alert (e.g., `{{H6462}}`, *paqad*, to visit, attend to; or `{{H8245}}`, *shaqat*, to be quiet, often implying rest or cessation of activity) stands in direct contrast to nûwm. The call for humans to be vigilant, especially in a spiritual sense, is a recurring theme in biblical wisdom and prophecy, highlighting the danger of spiritual slumber.
* **Idleness and Sloth:** H5123 is closely tied to the concept of idleness, particularly in the wisdom literature. "A little slumber" leads to poverty, indicating that a lack of diligence and an inclination towards ease are detrimental.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of H5123 is profound and multifaceted:
1. **Divine Infallibility and Providence:** The most striking theological implication comes from its negation in relation to God in [[Psalm 121:3-4]]. This passage is a cornerstone of biblical theology regarding God's character. It asserts His eternal wakefulness, His unceasing watch over His people, and His absolute reliability. Unlike human guardians who need rest, God never ceases His protective and sustaining activity. This provides immense comfort and assurance to believers, knowing that their Keeper is perpetually vigilant.
2. **Human Responsibility and Spiritual State:** In contrast to God's vigilance, human "slumber" often carries negative connotations. It signifies a lack of diligence, an inclination towards ease, or, more critically, a spiritual apathy that renders individuals or communities unresponsive to divine warnings or calls to righteousness. The warnings in Proverbs are not merely about physical laziness but can extend to a spiritual dullness that prevents one from seeking wisdom or obeying God's commands. This "slumber" can lead to moral decay, spiritual poverty, and vulnerability to spiritual dangers.
3. **Leadership and Accountability:** The use of H5123 in [[Nahum 3:18]] regarding the slumbering shepherds underscores the grave responsibility of leadership. When those in charge "slumber," their flock (the nation or community) is left exposed and vulnerable, leading to ruin. This serves as a powerful reminder for all who hold positions of authority, emphasizing the need for constant alertness and faithful stewardship.
### Summary
The Hebrew word H5123 (נוּם, *nûwm*) primarily denotes "to slumber" or "to doze," representing a state of light sleep or drowsiness. Its usage in the Hebrew Bible extends beyond the literal to encompass significant metaphorical and theological meanings. While it can describe physical weariness and the dangers of idleness in practical wisdom, its most profound theological application is found in its negation concerning God. The declaration that God "will neither slumber nor sleep" ([[Psalm 121:3-4]]) serves as a foundational affirmation of His unceasing vigilance, unfailing providence, and absolute faithfulness. In stark contrast, human "slumber" often highlights a lack of diligence, spiritual apathy, or moral complacency, underscoring the human need for vigilance and responsiveness to divine truth. Thus, nûwm illuminates both the steadfast character of the divine Keeper and the call for human alertness in spiritual and practical life.
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