The Hebrew word nûwmâh, represented by H5124, refers to drowsiness or sleepiness. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire biblical text. Its meaning is derived from the root word for slumber.
The sole appearance of H5124 is within the wisdom literature of Proverbs, where it serves as a powerful warning. In the context of the verse, drowsiness is presented as a consequence of indulgence that leads directly to ruin. The passage states that "the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty: and drowsiness shall clothe a man with rags" Proverbs 23:21.
The meaning of H5124 is framed by several key words that appear with it in its only context:
- H5433 çâbâʼ (drunkard): This word means "to quaff to satiety, i.e. become tipsy." It establishes the context of over-indulgence that is paired with drowsiness.
- H2151 zâlal (glutton): Defined figuratively as being "loose morally, worthless or prodigal," this term highlights the character flaw associated with the behavior leading to drowsiness and poverty.
- H3423 yârash (to come to poverty): This root has a strong meaning of being dispossessed, ruined, or impoverished, signifying the ultimate outcome for the glutton and drunkard.
- H3847 lâbash (clothe): Meaning to "put on a garment or clothe," its use here is figurative, showing that drowsiness itself will dress a person in the consequence of "rags."
While appearing only once, the theological weight of H5124 is significant within its proverbial context.
- A Consequence of Vice: Drowsiness is not depicted as simple rest but as a state of lethargy resulting from the vices of the drunkard H5433 and the glutton H2151, as seen in Proverbs 23:21.
- The Fruit of Idleness: The term functions as a symbol for sloth. The statement that drowsiness will "clothe a man with rags" Proverbs 23:21 serves as a stark illustration of the principle that idleness and a lack of self-control lead to material destitution.
- Tangible Result of a Moral State: The use of H5124 demonstrates a core theme in wisdom literature: a person's inner moral state has direct and tangible consequences in the physical world, linking lethargy to poverty and shame.
In summary, nûwmâh H5124 is a highly specific term whose single use provides a focused and potent moral lesson. It is more than just sleepiness; it represents a state of slothful and indulgent lethargy. In its biblical context, it stands as a stark warning that such drowsiness, born from a life of excess, leads inevitably to the ruin and shame of being clothed in rags H7168.
TRV