### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nᵉchûwshâh**, represented by `{{H5154}}`, primarily denotes materials like **copper**, **brass**, or **steel**. It appears 10 times across 10 unique verses in the Bible. The term is consistently used to symbolize immense, unyielding strength, whether in the context of divine judgment, human obstinacy, or formidable weaponry and structures.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H5154}}` is used both literally and metaphorically to convey hardness and strength. God describes Israel's obstinacy by stating their "brow" is **brass** [[Isaiah 48:4]]. As an instrument of divine power, God promises to "break in pieces the gates of **brass**" [[Isaiah 45:2]] and, in judgment, to make the "earth as **brass**" [[Leviticus 26:19]]. The term also describes military might and physical fortitude, as seen in the "bow of **steel**" that is broken by divinely strengthened arms ([[Psalms 18:34]], [[2 Samuel 22:35]]) and in the description of a powerful creature whose bones are like "strong pieces of **brass**" [[Job 40:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of hardness and strength:
* `{{H1270}}` **barzel** (iron): This word for **iron** is frequently paired with `{{H5154}}` to describe extreme durability and strength. The two materials are mentioned together as obstacles to be overcome by God, such as the "gates of **brass**" and "bars of **iron**" [[Isaiah 45:2]], and as metaphors for a creature's powerful bones [[Job 40:18]].
* `{{H7186}}` **qâsheh** (obstinate): Meaning **hard** or **obstinate**, this term is used to describe the very character trait that `{{H5154}}` symbolizes. In describing Israel's rebellion, God states that they are **obstinate** with a neck of iron and a brow of **brass** [[Isaiah 48:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5154}}` is significant. It is used to illustrate key spiritual principles.
* **Symbol of Human Stubbornness:** The most direct theological use of `{{H5154}}` is as a metaphor for a hardened heart. A "brow **brass**" represents a defiant and unyielding obstinacy against God [[Isaiah 48:4]].
* **Measure of Divine Power and Judgment:** The strength of **brass** serves as a benchmark for God's power. He demonstrates His sovereignty by shattering man-made defenses like "gates of **brass**" [[Isaiah 45:2]]. His judgment is also described in these terms, as when He threatens to make the earth "as **brass**," signifying a state of curse and barrenness [[Leviticus 26:19]].
* **Instrument of Divine Empowerment:** God can impart the strength of **brass** to his agents to accomplish His will. For Zion, God promises to make its "hoofs **brass**" to thresh the nations, turning a material of defense and construction into an instrument of divinely ordained power [[Micah 4:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5154}}` is far more than a simple term for a metal. It is a powerful biblical symbol for unyielding hardness, representing everything from the defiant stubbornness of humanity to the impenetrable power of God's judgment and empowerment. The use of **nᵉchûwshâh** illustrates how the physical world is used in Scripture to articulate profound theological truths about strength, rebellion, and divine sovereignty.
TRV