from the same as נַחַר; a nostril; (dual) nostrils.
Transliteration:nᵉchîyr
Pronunciation:nekh-eer'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term נְחִיר (nᵉchîyr, `{{H5156}}`) refers specifically to a "nostril" or, in its dual form, "nostrils." Its etymological root is connected to נַחַר (nachar, `{{H5170}}`), which carries the meaning of "snorting." This connection is significant, as it imbues נְחִיר with a nuance beyond mere anatomy; it suggests the capacity for forceful exhalation, often associated with powerful sound, heat, or intense emotion. Thus, while its primary semantic range is limited to the physical opening for breathing, the underlying root hints at the dynamic potential of this bodily organ, particularly in expressions of strength or agitation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term נְחִיר (nᵉchîyr, `{{H5156}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the vivid description of Leviathan:
* **[[Job 41:20]]**: "Out of his nostrils goeth smoke, as out of a seething pot or caldron." (Hebrew numbering: [[Job 41:12]] in some English translations).
In this singular occurrence, the context is the awe-inspiring and terrifying portrayal of Leviathan, a creature of immense power and untameable strength, presented by God to Job as a demonstration of divine sovereignty. The smoke issuing from Leviathan's nostrils is a powerful image, conveying not merely the creature's breath, but a fiery, destructive exhalation. This detail emphasizes Leviathan's formidable nature, its internal heat, and its capacity for overwhelming force. The imagery transforms the simple act of breathing through nostrils into a manifestation of raw, untamed power, highlighting the creature's fearsome dominion within its realm.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of נְחִיר (nᵉchîyr, `{{H5156}}`) is enriched by examining its relationship to other Hebrew terms and concepts:
* **נַחַר (nachar, `{{H5170}}`):** As the root from which נְחִיר is derived, נַחַר means "to snort." This connection immediately links the anatomical feature to a forceful, often audible, expulsion of air, commonly associated with horses in battle or with expressions of anger and vigor.
* **אַף ('aph, `{{H639}}`):** This is the more common Hebrew word for "nose" or "nostril." Significantly, 'aph is frequently used metaphorically for "anger" or "wrath" (e.g., "slow to anger," lit. "long of nose"). While נְחִיר specifically denotes the opening, 'aph can refer to the entire nasal organ or even the face. The shared connection to breath and strong emotion suggests a semantic field where nostrils are perceived as conduits for powerful internal states.
* **רוּחַ (ruach, `{{H7307}}`):** Meaning "wind," "breath," or "spirit," רוּחַ is the very essence of life and power in biblical thought. While נְחִיר is the physical apparatus, רוּחַ is the animating force that passes through it. The powerful exhalation from Leviathan's nostrils in [[Job 41:20]] can be seen as a physical manifestation of its formidable "spirit" or inherent power.
* **Divine Wrath:** The imagery of smoke or fire issuing from nostrils is not exclusive to creatures like Leviathan. It is also used anthropomorphically to describe God's wrath, as seen in [[Psalm 18:8]] (or [[Psalm 18:9]] in some versions): "Smoke went up from his nostrils, and devouring fire from his mouth." This parallel usage underscores the symbolic power of nostrils as channels for immense, often destructive, force, whether divine or creaturely.
### Theological Significance
Though appearing only once, the use of נְחִיר (nᵉchîyr, `{{H5156}}`) in the description of Leviathan carries significant theological weight within the book of Job and broader biblical theology:
* **Manifestation of Power and Chaos:** The smoke from Leviathan's nostrils in [[Job 41:20]] vividly portrays a creature of untamed, almost supernatural power. Leviathan is often interpreted as a symbol of primeval chaos and the forces beyond human control. The nostrils, as the source of this destructive exhalation, become a focal point for the creature's terrifying might.
* **Divine Sovereignty and Humility:** The entire discourse on Leviathan (and Behemoth) in Job 40-41 serves to humble Job by demonstrating the incomprehensible power of God, who alone can create and control such formidable beings. The terrifying power emanating from Leviathan's nostrils ultimately points to the even greater, absolute power of the Creator. Thus, even the most fearsome aspects of creation are ultimately subject to divine will.
* **Symbolism of Breath and Life/Death:** Nostrils are fundamental to the breath of life. However, in this context, they are associated with a terrifying, almost death-dealing exhalation. This highlights a biblical principle where physical attributes, while necessary for life, can also be conduits for destructive force, reflecting the awesome dual potential inherent in creation.
* **Anthropomorphic/Zoomorphic Imagery:** The shared imagery of "smoke from nostrils" for both Leviathan and God's wrath ([[Psalm 18:8]]) suggests a common conceptualization of powerful, often fiery, exhalation as a sign of immense force and indignation. This imagery helps convey the overwhelming nature of both creaturely and divine power.
### Summary
The Hebrew word נְחִיר (nᵉchîyr, `{{H5156}}`) denotes "nostril" or "nostrils," derived from a root signifying "snorting." Its singular appearance in [[Job 41:20]] provides a potent image of Leviathan's formidable power, from whose nostrils smoke issues forth. This usage highlights the nostrils not merely as anatomical features but as conduits for intense, often destructive, force. Conceptually, נְחִיר is linked to `{{H5170}}` (snorting), `{{H639}}` (nose/anger), and the broader concept of `{{H7307}}` (breath/spirit). Theologically, the powerful emanation from Leviathan's nostrils underscores the creature's untamed might, serving ultimately to magnify God's supreme sovereignty over all creation, even the most terrifying elements. It symbolizes the physical locus through which overwhelming power, whether creaturely or divine, can be expressed.
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