### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Nôach**, represented by `{{H5146}}`, means **rest**. It appears 46 times across 39 unique verses, referring to the patriarch of the flood. While primarily a proper name, its meaning is significant, as his birth was seen as a source of comfort from the toil of a cursed ground [[Genesis 5:29]].
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5146}}` is central to the account of the global flood. He is introduced as a "just man and perfect in his generations" who "walked with God" [[Genesis 6:9]]. Because of his righteousness, Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD while the earth was filled with violence ([[Genesis 6:8]], [[Genesis 6:13]]). He obediently followed God's commands to build an ark, which preserved him, his family, and animal life from the destructive waters ([[Genesis 6:22]], [[Genesis 7:23]]). After the flood, God established a covenant with Noah and blessed him, marking a new beginning for humanity ([[Genesis 9:1]], [[Genesis 9:17]]). His righteousness was so notable that he is mentioned alongside Daniel and Job as a standard of righteousness [[Ezekiel 14:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide deeper context to Noah's identity and story:
* `{{H5162}}` **nâcham** (to be sorry, i.e. (in a favorable sense) to pity, console or (reflexively) rue): This word is the root of Noah's name and is used explicitly at his naming, where he is prophesied to "comfort us concerning our work and toil" [[Genesis 5:29]].
* `{{H6662}}` **tsaddîyq** (just): This is a core attribute of Noah, who was seen by the LORD as **righteous** in his generation [[Genesis 7:1]].
* `{{H8392}}` **têbâh** (a box; ark): This refers to the vessel Noah was commanded to build, becoming the instrument of salvation for his **house** and the creatures within it [[Genesis 7:1]].
* `{{H8435}}` **tôwlᵉdâh** (descent, i.e. family; (figuratively) history): The account of Noah is introduced with the phrase "These are the **generations** of Noah" [[Genesis 6:9]], framing his story as a pivotal point in human history.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5146}}` is immense, establishing key themes of judgment and salvation.
* **Righteous Remnant:** Noah embodies the principle of a righteous remnant being saved from divine judgment. While the rest of the world was destroyed for its wickedness, Noah "remained alive" because he was found just before God ([[Genesis 7:23]], [[Genesis 7:1]]).
* **Covenantal Head:** After the flood, God establishes a covenant directly with Noah and all flesh, marked by the token of a rainbow [[Genesis 9:17]]. He stands as the head of a renewed humanity, tasked with replenishing the earth [[Genesis 9:1]].
* **A Figure of Rest:** His name, meaning "rest," is prophetic. He brings humanity comfort and a respite from the judgment that came upon the earth because of the ground the LORD had cursed [[Genesis 5:29]]. He built an altar and worshipped God, who in turn promised never again to curse the ground in such a way [[Genesis 8:20]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5146}}` is not merely the name of a historical figure but a symbol of righteousness, salvation, and new beginnings. Noah's obedience in the face of universal corruption preserved life on earth and initiated a new covenant between God and humanity. His story, rooted in the meaning of his name, "rest," serves as a foundational biblical account of judgment, divine preservation, and the hope of starting anew.
TRV