### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun nûwmâh (`{{H5124}}`) denotes a state of "sleepiness" or "drowsiness." It is derived from the verbal root nûm (`{{H5123}}`), meaning "to slumber" or "to sleep." Unlike deeper states of unconscious sleep, nûwmâh signifies the initial or lighter stage of sleep, a feeling of being overcome by the need to sleep, rather than being fully asleep. It implies a condition of being on the verge of sleep, characterized by a lack of full alertness and a tendency towards rest. The semantic range is therefore quite narrow, focusing on this specific pre-sleep state.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term nûwmâh (`{{H5124}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in [[Psalm 132:4]]. The verse reads: "I will not give sleep to my eyes, nor slumber to my eyelids." In this context, nûwmâh is translated as "slumber" and is paralleled with shēnāh (`{{H8142}}`), "sleep." This parallelism forms a merism, emphasizing the totality of the speaker's vow to forgo any form of rest, from the lightest drowsiness to full sleep. The speaker is King David, who is making a solemn oath to the Lord regarding his commitment to finding a permanent dwelling place for the Ark of the Covenant, symbolizing God's presence among His people (cf. [[Psalm 132:1-5]]). The inclusion of nûwmâh underscores the intensity and comprehensiveness of David's dedication, indicating that he would not allow even the slightest inclination towards rest to deter him from his sacred mission. This singular usage highlights the extreme vigilance and tireless effort David was willing to exert.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is its verbal root, nûm (`{{H5123}}`), "to slumber," which appears more frequently in the Hebrew Bible. Examples include God's promise that Israel's Keeper "will neither slumber nor sleep" (`{{H5123}}` in [[Psalm 121:3-4]]) and the prophet Nahum's lament that Assyria's shepherds "slumber" (`{{H5123}}` in [[Nahum 3:18]]). Other Hebrew words for sleep include shēnāh (`{{H8142}}`), a more general term for "sleep" (e.g., [[Genesis 28:11]], [[Psalm 3:5]]), and tardēmāh (`{{H8639}}`), which refers to a "deep sleep" or "trance" (e.g., [[Genesis 2:21]], [[Genesis 15:12]]). Nûwmâh specifically conveys the *onset* or *inclination* towards sleep, distinguishing it from full unconsciousness. Its pairing with shēnāh in [[Psalm 132:4]] creates a rhetorical emphasis on the complete absence of rest. Conceptually, nûwmâh relates to themes of vigilance, watchfulness, dedication, and spiritual alertness, contrasting with spiritual apathy or negligence.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of nûwmâh in [[Psalm 132:4]] carries profound theological weight, serving as a powerful metaphor for unwavering dedication and vigilance in service to God. David's vow to deny himself even the slightest "drowsiness" until God's dwelling is secured speaks to a commitment that transcends personal comfort and prioritizes divine purposes. This commitment reflects a deep reverence for God and His presence. Theologically, it establishes a paradigm of tireless devotion for believers, urging them to cultivate a similar spiritual alertness and avoid apathy or spiritual "slumber" (cf. [[Romans 13:11]], [[Ephesians 5:14]]). This human commitment stands in stark contrast to the divine nature, where God "will neither slumber nor sleep" (cf. [[Psalm 121:3-4]]), ensuring His perpetual watchfulness and faithfulness over His people. Thus, nûwmâh highlights the human capacity for self-denial and focused effort in pursuing God's will.
### Summary
The Hebrew word nûwmâh (`{{H5124}}`) precisely describes the state of "sleepiness" or "drowsiness," distinct from deeper forms of sleep. Its sole biblical occurrence in [[Psalm 132:4]] is highly significant, portraying King David's profound and comprehensive vow to forgo all rest until God's dwelling place was established. This unique usage underscores the intensity of his dedication and vigilance. Theologically, nûwmâh serves as a powerful symbol of tireless commitment and spiritual alertness, inviting believers to emulate such devotion in their service to the Divine, mirroring, in a human way, the ever-watchful nature of God Himself.
TRV