### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nichûwm**, represented by `{{H5150}}`, is an abstract term for **solace** and **comfort**, and can also mean **repenting**. It appears only 3 times in 3 unique verses, but each instance provides a profound insight into the nature of divine compassion and restoration.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H5150}}` describes God's response to human suffering and waywardness. In [[Zechariah 1:13]], the LORD answers an angel with "good words and **comfortable** words," offering verbal assurance and solace. God also promises active restoration in [[Isaiah 57:18]], vowing to "restore **comforts** unto him and to his mourners." The word also conveys a deep, internal emotion within God himself, as seen in [[Hosea 11:8]], where God's heart is turned and His "**repentings**" are kindled together out of love for Israel.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of `{{H5150}}`:
* `{{H3648}}` **kâmar** (to be deeply affected with passion... yearn): This word is used alongside `{{H5150}}` in [[Hosea 11:8]], where God’s repentings "are **kindled** together," illustrating the intense, passionate nature of His compassion.
* `{{H57}}` **ʼâbêl** (lamenting; mourn(-er, -ing)): This term identifies the recipients of God's comfort. God promises to restore comforts specifically to "his **mourners**" in [[Isaiah 57:18]], directly linking divine solace to those experiencing grief.
* `{{H2896}}` **ṭôwb** (good... well): In [[Zechariah 1:13]], the Lord's "comfortable words" are also described as "**good** words," emphasizing the positive, beneficial, and kind nature of the solace He provides.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5150}}` reveals a multi-faceted view of divine comfort.
* **Divine Repentance as Compassion:** In [[Hosea 11:8]], "repentings" describes God's internal, emotional turning. It is not a repentance from sin, but a powerful expression of yearning and pity for His people, choosing compassion over destruction.
* **Active Restoration:** God’s comfort is not passive. He promises to "heal" `{{H7495}}` and "restore" `{{H7999}}` comforts to those who are mourning, showing that His solace is an act of divine intervention and renewal [[Isaiah 57:18]].
* **Verbal Assurance:** The Lord provides comfort through His spoken word. The "good and comfortable words" in [[Zechariah 1:13]] demonstrate that God communicates his solace and peaceful intentions directly to His people, bringing assurance in times of uncertainty.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5150}}` provides a window into the heart of God. Though rare, its usage powerfully conveys that divine comfort is not merely a feeling but an active, restorative force. It encompasses God's deeply kindled compassion, His specific promises of solace to the grieving, and His active work to heal and bring peace.
TRV