נוּמָה

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

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.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

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.

Related Words & Concepts

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."

Theological Significance

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.

Summary

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.