### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word נוּק (nûwq), Strong's `{{H5134}}`, is identified as a primitive root with the core meaning "to suckle" or "to nurse." As a primitive root, it signifies a fundamental, foundational action of providing or receiving nourishment through suckling. While the direct verbal forms of `{{H5134}}` are not extensively attested in the Hebrew Bible, its definition points to the essential biological and relational act of an infant drawing sustenance from a mother or nurse. The semantic range thus encompasses both the active giving of milk (nursing) and the passive receiving of it (suckling), embodying concepts of sustenance, dependence, and early care.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
While נוּק (nûwq) `{{H5134}}` is listed as a primitive root, its direct verbal forms are exceedingly rare in the extant Hebrew biblical text. The concept of "suckling" or "nursing" that `{{H5134}}` defines is predominantly expressed through the closely related and much more frequently attested root ינק (yanaq) `{{H3243}}`. Therefore, to understand the biblical context of the concept defined by `{{H5134}}`, it is necessary to examine passages where ינק `{{H3243}}` is used to convey "suckling" or "nursing."
A prominent example is found in [[Isaiah 60:16]]: "You will also suck the milk of nations, and nurse at the breast of kings; and you will know that I, the Lord, am your Savior and your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob." Here, the verb used is from ינק `{{H3243}}`, yet it perfectly illustrates the concept of being nourished and sustained, which is the essence of `{{H5134}}`. This verse speaks of Zion's future restoration and prosperity, where nations will provide sustenance, much like a child nurses from a mother. The imagery conveys abundant provision, honor, and a reversal of fortunes, emphasizing divine blessing and dependence on God for ultimate provision.
Other instances where the concept of nursing is vital include:
* The care of infants: References to "nursing infants" (e.g., `{{H3243}}` in [[Deuteronomy 32:25]], [[Psalm 8:2]]) highlight vulnerability and the need for protection.
* Maternal care: The imagery of a nursing mother is used to describe God's compassionate care for His people (e.g., `{{H3243}}` in [[Isaiah 49:15]]).
Although `{{H5134}}` itself is not widely attested as a verb, its definition points to a foundational biological and relational act that is deeply embedded in biblical thought, even if expressed through a more common cognate.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is ינק (yanaq) `{{H3243}}`, which is the most common Hebrew verb for "to suck" or "to nurse." This root gives rise to:
* יוֹנֵק (yoneq) `{{H3126}}`: "a suckling," an infant or young child, also metaphorically a tender shoot or twig.
* יוֹנֶקֶת (yoneqet) `{{H3127}}`: "a suckling," specifically referring to a young plant or branch.
Other related concepts include:
* שָׁד (shad) `{{H7699}}`: "breast," the source of milk for nursing.
* חָלָב (chalav) `{{H2461}}`: "milk," the substance of nourishment.
* עוֹלֵל (ʿolel) `{{H5764}}`: "infant," "child," often emphasizing their helplessness and dependence.
* גָּמַל (gamal) `{{H1580}}`: "to wean," marking a transition from dependence on nursing.
Collectively, these words and concepts paint a comprehensive picture of early life, maternal care, dependence, and the provision of sustenance, both physical and metaphorical.
### Theological Significance
The concept of "suckling" or "nursing," as defined by `{{H5134}}` and expressed through `{{H3243}}`, carries profound theological significance:
1. **Divine Provision and Sustenance:** The imagery of nursing directly points to God as the ultimate provider of all necessities. Just as an infant is utterly dependent on its mother for life, humanity is entirely dependent on God for physical and spiritual sustenance. The promise that Zion will "suck the milk of nations" [[Isaiah 60:16]] is a powerful metaphor for God's abundant provision and blessing upon His people.
2. **Vulnerability and Dependence:** The act of suckling highlights profound vulnerability and complete dependence. The biblical use of this imagery often underscores humanity's inherent weakness and absolute reliance on God's strength and care. This fosters humility and trust in divine sovereignty.
3. **Maternal Metaphors for God:** While God is primarily depicted in masculine terms, the imagery of a nursing mother (e.g., `{{H3243}}` in [[Isaiah 49:15]]) offers a tender and intimate portrayal of God's compassionate, nurturing, and unwavering love for His people, emphasizing His deep emotional attachment and commitment to their well-being.
4. **Spiritual Growth and Nourishment:** In the New Testament, the metaphor of "milk" is used for basic spiritual teaching, necessary for new believers before they can handle "solid food" ([[1 Corinthians 3:2]], [[Hebrews 5:12-14]]). This connects the physical act of nursing to the process of spiritual maturation and the consumption of divine truth.
### Summary
The Hebrew word נוּק (nûwq) `{{H5134}}` is defined as a primitive root meaning "to suckle" or "to nurse." While its direct verbal forms are rare in the Hebrew Bible, the foundational concept it defines is pervasive and vital, primarily expressed through the cognate root ינק `{{H3243}}`. This concept underscores profound themes of divine provision, human dependence, and tender, nurturing care. From the physical sustenance of an infant to the spiritual nourishment of God's people, the act of nursing serves as a powerful biblical metaphor for reliance on God's abundant grace and unwavering love, particularly evident in promises of restoration and blessing where God Himself is the ultimate source of life and flourishing.
TRV