or נָזִר; from נָזַר; separate, i.e. consecrated (as prince, a Nazirite); hence (figuratively from the latter) an unpruned vine (like an unshorn Nazirite); Nazarite (by a false alliteration with Nazareth), separate(-d), vine undressed.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nâzîyr**, represented by `{{H5139}}`, primarily means to be **separate** or **consecrated**. It appears 16 times across 16 unique verses in the Bible. The term applies to an individual set apart for God through a special vow, known as a Nazarite, but also extends figuratively to a leader or prince, and even to an unpruned vine, reflecting the core idea of being set apart from the ordinary.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5139}}` is used in several key contexts. It most commonly defines the "Nazarite," a person who vows to **separate** themselves to the LORD `{{H3068}}` [[Numbers 6:2]]. This vow entailed specific restrictions, such as abstaining from wine [[Amos 2:12]] and not allowing a razor to come upon their head [[Judges 13:5]]. This consecration could be for life, as in the case of the child who would begin to deliver `{{H3467}}` Israel `{{H3478}}` from the Philistines `{{H6430}}` [[Judges 13:5]], or for a specified period. The term is also used to describe Joseph `{{H3130}}` as being **separate** from his brethren `{{H251}}`, highlighting his unique and elevated position ([[Genesis 49:26]], [[Deuteronomy 33:16]]). In an agricultural sense, it refers to a "vine undressed," left unpruned during a year of rest `{{H7677}}` for the land `{{H776}}` [[Leviticus 25:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of separation and consecration:
* `{{H5144}}` **nâzar** (to consecrate, separate(-ing, self)): This is the root verb from which **nâzîyr** is derived. It describes the action of dedicating or separating oneself for a holy purpose, as seen in the command to **separate** themselves unto the LORD `{{H3068}}` [[Numbers 6:2]].
* `{{H5145}}` **nezer** (consecration, crown, hair, separation): This noun often refers to the physical sign of the Nazarite's vow—their unshorn hair. After the vow is complete, the Nazarite shaves the "hair of his **separation**" and puts it in the fire `{{H784}}` of the peace offerings `{{H8002}}` [[Numbers 6:18]].
* `{{H6944}}` **qôdesh** (holiness, consecrated thing): This term defines the state resulting from the separation. The offerings made at the completion of the vow are described as **holy** for the priest `{{H3548}}`, setting them apart for sacred use [[Numbers 6:20]].
* `{{H6381}}` **pâlâʼ** (to separate, make singular): This verb is used to describe the extraordinary act of making a Nazarite vow, emphasizing that it is a special and distinguished commitment made by a man `{{H376}}` or woman `{{H802}}` [[Numbers 6:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5139}}` is significant, illustrating a deep commitment to God.
* **Voluntary Consecration:** The Nazarite vow represents a personal and voluntary act of separating oneself for the LORD `{{H3068}}`, demonstrating a desire for a higher level of holiness [[Numbers 6:2]]. This was available to any man `{{H376}}` or woman `{{H802}}`.
* **Divine Appointment:** In some cases, being a **Nazarite** was a divine calling from the womb `{{H990}}` for a specific purpose, such as delivering Israel `{{H3478}}` [[Judges 13:5]]. This shows that separation can be an instrument of God's plan.
* **Princely Status and Blessing:** The application of **nâzîyr** to Joseph `{{H3130}}` as "separate from his brethren" links the concept of separation to divine blessing `{{H1293}}` and leadership. The blessings of his father `{{H1}}` and progenitors `{{H2029}}` are for him as the one set apart [[Genesis 49:26]].
* **Symbol of Purity and Rest:** The depiction of Nazarites as "purer than snow" [[Lamentations 4:7]] and the connection to an "unpruned vine" [[Leviticus 25:5]] ties the idea of separation to both personal purity and the sanctified rest of the land.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5139}}` is far more than a simple label for a specific vow. It embodies the foundational biblical principle of being set apart for a higher, holy purpose. Whether describing a man consecrated to God, a blessed leader chosen from among his brothers, or a field left to rest, **nâzîyr** consistently points to a state of separation that is special, sacred, and aligned with the will `{{H7522}}` of the LORD `{{H3068}}`.
TRV