### 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}}`.
TRV