from נָחַל (in its usual sense); properly, something inherited, i.e. (abstractly) occupancy, or (concretely) an heirloom; generally an estate, patrimony or portion; heritage, to inherit, inheritance, possession. Compare נַחַל.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nachălâh**, represented by `{{H5159}}`, describes something inherited and is broadly translated as **heritage, to inherit, inheritance, or possession**. It appears **222 times** across **191 unique verses** in the Bible. Its core meaning refers to an heirloom, estate, or portion received through occupancy or as a patrimony.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H5159}}` is used to define inherited rights and relationships in several ways. It most commonly refers to the physical land God promised to Israel, which was divided among the tribes [[Joshua 11:23]]. It also describes familial property passed down through generations, as when Naboth refused to give up the **inheritance** of his fathers [[1 Kings 21:3]]. The concept is elevated to describe the people of Israel as God's own special possession, His **inheritance** [[Deuteronomy 4:20]]. In a spiritual sense, God Himself is presented as the ultimate **inheritance** for His priests, surpassing any earthly portion [[Numbers 18:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the scope of inheritance and possession:
* `{{H5157}}` **nâchal**: This is the root verb from which **nachălâh** is derived, meaning to **inherit, occupy, or bequeath**. It is used when God states He has caused His people Israel **to inherit** the land [[Jeremiah 12:14]].
* `{{H2506}}` **chêleq**: Meaning a **portion** or an allotment, this word often appears alongside **nachălâh**. The Levites, for example, were said to have no **part** nor **inheritance** with the other tribes [[Deuteronomy 12:12]].
* `{{H272}}` **'ăchuzzâh**: Defined as something seized or a **possession**, this term is used to describe the tangible ownership of what is inherited. God promises the uttermost parts of the earth for a **possession** [[Psalms 2:8]], which is given as an **inheritance**.
* `{{H1}}` **'âb**: This word for **father** is intrinsically linked to inheritance. [[Proverbs 19:14]] states that a house and riches are the **inheritance** of fathers.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5159}}` is significant, defining the relationship between God and His people.
* **Covenant Land:** The land is not merely acquired property but a divine gift given as a permanent **heritage** from God to His people, establishing their place in the world [[Deuteronomy 15:4]].
* **God's People as His Heritage:** In a profound reversal, Israel is not just the recipient of an inheritance but is described as God's own **heritage** [[Joel 3:2]]. This highlights their status as His treasured possession, chosen from all other nations [[Psalms 33:12]].
* **Spiritual Inheritance:** The concept transcends the physical, pointing to a deeper spiritual reality. For the Levites, and by extension all believers, the LORD Himself is their portion and **inheritance**, a relationship more valuable than any material wealth [[Numbers 18:20]]. Children are also described as a **heritage** of the LORD [[Psalms 127:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5159}}` **nachălâh** is a cornerstone biblical term that evolves from a concrete reference to land and property to a profound metaphor for spiritual identity and relationship. It illustrates the nature of God's covenant, where He not only gives His people a physical **inheritance** but also claims them as His own special **heritage**, ultimately offering Himself as their greatest portion.
TRV