### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nûwm**, represented by `{{H5123}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to slumber (from drowsiness)**. It appears a total of **6 times** in 6 unique verses. While it can mean sleep, its usage often implies a state of drowsiness, inattention, or neglect, distinguishing it from deeper states of rest.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H5123}}` is most often used to contrast the vigilance of God with the failure of humans. The Psalmist declares that God, the one who **keeps** Israel, will neither **slumber** nor sleep [[Psalm 121:4]]. This promise assures that God's protection is constant and He will not suffer His people's feet to be moved [[Psalm 121:3]]. Conversely, slumber is depicted as a failing of those in authority. The watchmen of Israel are condemned for "loving to **slumber**" [[Isaiah 56:10]], and the shepherds of Assyria are said to **slumber**, leading to the scattering of their people [[Nahum 3:18]]. It can also describe a state of utter defeat, as when the stouthearted "have slept their sleep" [[Psalm 76:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of slumber and watchfulness:
* `{{H3462}}` **yâshên** (to sleep): This word is often used in parallel with `nûwm` to form a complete picture of rest or inattentiveness, as in the phrase "neither slumber nor sleep" ([[Psalm 121:4]], [[Isaiah 5:27]]). It generally refers to a deeper sleep.
* `{{H8104}}` **shâmar** (to keep, guard): This term stands in direct opposition to `nûwm`. God's nature as one who **keeps** or guards His people is proven by the fact that He does not **slumber** [[Psalm 121:3]].
* `{{H7901}}` **shâkab** (to lie down): This word describes the physical posture associated with rest. It is used to characterize the negligent watchmen who are "lying down, loving to slumber" [[Isaiah 56:10]].
* `{{H5414}}` **nâthan** (to give, suffer, put): This verb is used to express God's active prevention of failure. He will not "suffer" or allow the foot to be moved precisely because He does not **slumber** [[Psalm 121:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5123}}` is found in its powerful contrasts.
* **Divine Vigilance:** The word's most significant theological use is to affirm God's ceaseless care. His inability to **slumber** is the ultimate guarantee of His protection over Israel [[Psalm 121:4]].
* **Failure of Leadership:** Slumber serves as a potent metaphor for irresponsible leadership. When watchmen and shepherds **slumber**, it signifies a dereliction of duty that brings disaster upon those they are meant to protect ([[Isaiah 56:10]], [[Nahum 3:18]]).
* **A Sign of Weakness or Defeat:** To **slumber** can symbolize a state of powerlessness or inactivity. The advancing army in Isaiah is characterized by its lack of slumber, showing its readiness and strength [[Isaiah 5:27]], while defeated warriors are described as having slept their final sleep [[Psalm 76:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5123}}` is not merely a synonym for sleep but a specific term for drowsiness and inattention. It functions biblically to draw a sharp line between the unwavering, watchful nature of God and the fallibility of human guardians. Through its use, the scriptures highlight God's perfect reliability and warn against the dangers of spiritual and physical negligence.
TRV