### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Nûwn**, represented by `{{H5126}}`, primarily functions as a proper name meaning **perpetuity**. It appears **30 times** in **30 unique verses**, where it almost exclusively identifies a single individual: the father of Joshua. The name is also rendered as **Non** in one instance [[1 Chronicles 7:27]]. Its significance is tied directly to the identity of his prominent son.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5126}}` is consistently used to establish the lineage of Joshua, Moses's successor. The phrase "Joshua the son of **Nun**" serves as a formal identifier throughout the Pentateuch and the historical books. This is seen when Joshua is first mentioned as one of the spies from the tribe of Ephraim [[Numbers 13:8]], when he is commissioned by God to lead Israel [[Numbers 27:18]], and at the start of his leadership after Moses's death [[Joshua 1:1]]. Even after his death, he is remembered as "Joshua the son of **Nun**, the servant of the LORD" [[Judges 2:8]], cementing this name as his official patriarchal identifier.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are crucial for understanding the context surrounding **Nûwn**:
* `{{H3091}}` **Yᵉhôwshûwaʻ** (Joshua): This name, meaning "Jehovah-saved," belongs to the son of Nun. The connection is inseparable, as nearly every mention of `{{H5126}}` is to identify the father of **Yᵉhôwshûwaʻ** [[Joshua 1:1]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (son): This word, meaning "a son (as a builder of the family name)," directly connects Joshua to his father, forming the key identifying phrase "Joshua the **son** of Nun" [[Exodus 33:11]].
* `{{H8334}}` **shârath** (minister): Before becoming the leader, Joshua is identified as Moses's **minister**, a role he holds as the son of Nun, emphasizing his position of service and apprenticeship [[Joshua 1:1]].
* `{{H5650}}` **ʻebed** (servant): This term describes Joshua's ultimate role as the "**servant** of the LORD," an identity he carries at the time of his death [[Joshua 24:29]], linking his entire life of service back to his identity as the son of Nun.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5126}}` is derived entirely from its association with Joshua and the role he played in Israel's history.
* **Continuity of Covenant Leadership:** The name is integral to the formal transfer of authority from Moses to Joshua. By consistently identifying Joshua as the "son of **Nun**," the narrative establishes a clear and legitimate line of succession for leading God's people into the promised land [[Deuteronomy 34:9]].
* **Legacy of Faithfulness:** Nun is the father of one of the two spies who trusted God's promise. The name is therefore linked to the generation of faith that was preserved from judgment in the wilderness and permitted to enter Canaan ([[Numbers 26:65]], [[Numbers 32:12]]).
* **Foundation of Inheritance:** The name is present during the pivotal moments of Israel taking possession of the land. Joshua, son of **Nun**, is the one who oversees the division of the inheritance among the tribes, fulfilling the promise made to the patriarchs ([[Joshua 14:1]], [[Joshua 19:51]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5126}}` is not a conceptual term but a proper name whose importance is defined by its patriarchal link to Joshua. The name **Nûwn** functions as an anchor for Joshua's identity, reinforcing the legitimacy of his leadership and connecting him to a legacy of faithfulness. Its repeated use underscores the importance of lineage and succession in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan for Israel.
TRV