a primitive root; to resprout, i.e. propagate by shoots; figuratively, to be perpetual; be continued.
Transliteration:nûwn
Pronunciation:noon
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root `{{H5125}}` (נוּן, *nûwn*) is a primitive root, carrying a foundational semantic weight. Its primary, literal meaning is botanical: "to resprout" or "to propagate by shoots." This evokes imagery of vigorous, natural growth, where a plant sends forth new shoots, ensuring its continuation and expansion. From this concrete image, the root extends figuratively to denote "to be perpetual" or "to be continued." This semantic range thus encompasses both the organic process of renewal and the abstract concept of enduring existence or unbroken succession. While the verbal form of this root is not attested in the Masoretic Text, its meaning is profoundly significant, particularly as the basis for the proper noun "Nun," the father of Joshua. The root encapsulates the idea of ongoing life, perpetuation, and the unbroken chain of existence or purpose.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
As noted, the verbal form of `{{H5125}}` (נוּן) does not appear directly in the Hebrew Bible. However, its meaning is powerfully preserved and conveyed through the proper noun נוּן (Nun), who is consistently identified as the father of Joshua (e.g., [[Exodus 33:11]], [[Numbers 11:28]], [[Deuteronomy 3:21]], [[Joshua 1:1]]). The name "Nun" itself is believed to derive from this root, signifying "offspring," "posterity," or "continuation." The choice of this name for Joshua's father is highly significant within the biblical narrative. Joshua, as the son of Nun, becomes Moses' successor, tasked with leading Israel into the Promised Land. His role is one of continuation – he continues the divine mission initiated by Moses, fulfilling the promises of God to His people. Thus, while the root does not appear as a verb, its concept of perpetuation and succession is central to the narrative surrounding Joshua, highlighting the unbroken nature of God's covenant and leadership.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept embedded in `{{H5125}}` connects to several other crucial biblical ideas. Foremost is the idea of **succession and inheritance**, particularly as seen in the transition from Moses to Joshua. This relates to words like `{{H3423}}` (ירשׁ, *yarash*, to inherit, take possession) or `{{H5157}}` (נחל, *nachal*, to inherit). The botanical aspect of "resprouting" can be linked to `{{H6780}}` (צמח, *tzemach*, sprout, branch), which is often used in prophetic contexts to speak of a "branch" or "shoot" that brings new life or messianic hope. The figurative meaning of "perpetual" or "continued" aligns with terms denoting **eternity, endurance, and faithfulness**, such as `{{H5769}}` (עולם, *olam*, forever, eternity) or `{{H5331}}` (נצח, *netzach*, enduring, perpetual). It also resonates with the concept of **posterity and generations** (`{{H1755}}` - דור, *dor*; `{{H2232}}` - זרע, *zera*, seed/offspring), emphasizing the ongoing nature of God's plan through successive generations.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H5125}}` is profound, despite its limited direct verbal attestation. It speaks primarily to the **perpetuity and faithfulness of God's covenant and purposes**. The very existence of the root, embodying "continuation" and "perpetuity," underscores a fundamental aspect of divine character: God is not a God of discontinuity or abandonment. His plans endure, His promises are perpetual, and His covenant with His people is everlasting. The name "Nun" and his son Joshua serve as a powerful testament to this truth. Even as one leader passes, God raises up another, ensuring the continuation of His redemptive history. This concept counters any notion that God's work might cease or fail. It points to divine constancy, assuring believers that God's word and will will be carried forward through time, generations, and changing circumstances. It implicitly speaks to the enduring nature of the divine plan for salvation and the kingdom.
### Summary
The Hebrew root `{{H5125}}` (נוּן, *nûwn*) conveys the core meaning of "to resprout" or "to propagate by shoots," extending figuratively to "to be perpetual" or "to be continued." While its verbal form is not found in the Masoretic Text, its profound semantic value is embodied in the proper noun "Nun," the father of Joshua. This connection highlights the theological concept of **continuation and perpetuity**, particularly in the context of God's unwavering faithfulness and the unbroken succession of His divine plan. The root underscores God's commitment to His covenant, ensuring that His purposes and promises endure through generations, providing a foundational assurance of divine constancy and the ongoing nature of His redemptive work.
TRV