from נְחַת; also (intransitively; perhaps from נוּחַ); a descent, i.e. imposition, unfavorable (punishment) or favorable (food); restfulness; lighting down, quiet(-ness), to rest, be set on.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Nachath**, represented by `{{H5183}}`, conveys concepts of rest, quietness, and descent. It appears **8 times** across **8 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning is dual, encompassing both a state of peaceful restfulness and the active imposition of something, whether it be a favorable provision or an unfavorable punishment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H5183}}` describes a range of conditions. It is presented as a spiritual state offered by God, where "in returning and **rest** shall ye be saved" [[Isaiah 30:15]]. It also depicts a powerful, punitive action, as the LORD shows "the **lighting down** of his arm" in judgment [[Isaiah 30:30]]. In a more tranquil context, it signifies the quietness that is more valuable than great labor [[Ecclesiastes 4:6]] and the atmosphere in which the words of the wise are best heard [[Ecclesiastes 9:17]]. The word can also refer to the finality of death, as in "our **rest** together is in the dust" [[Job 17:16]], or a favorable provision, such as that which is "**set** on thy table" [[Job 36:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{H5183}}`:
* `{{H8252}}` **shâqaṭ** (quietness): Meaning "to repose," this word is used in parallel with `{{H5183}}` to describe the path to strength in God: "in **quietness** and in confidence shall be your strength" [[Isaiah 30:15]].
* `{{H3381}}` **yârad** (to descend): As a primitive root for going down, it connects to the "descent" aspect of `{{H5183}}`. In [[Job 17:16]], it describes the action of going down to the pit where final **rest** is found.
* `{{H5999}}` **ʻâmâl** (travail): Defined as "toil" or "wearing effort," this word is set in direct opposition to `{{H5183}}` in [[Ecclesiastes 4:6]], which contrasts a handful with **quietness** to hands full with **travail**.
* `{{H2220}}` **zᵉrôwaʻ** (arm): Representing force and power, this word is the object of the action in [[Isaiah 30:30]], "the **lighting down** of his **arm**," linking `{{H5183}}` to an expression of divine force.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5183}}` is demonstrated in several ways:
* **Rest and Salvation:** `{{H5183}}` is presented as a foundational element for receiving God's salvation. In [[Isaiah 30:15]], returning and **rest** are the prescribed path to being saved, a path Israel would not take.
* **The Nature of Divine Power:** The word illustrates the dual application of God's power. It can describe a punitive "**lighting down**" of His arm in judgment [[Isaiah 30:30]], but also a favorable "**setting**" of a table full of fatness [[Job 36:16]].
* **The Atmosphere for Wisdom:** A state of quietness `{{H5183}}` is shown to be the environment where wisdom is best communicated and received. The words of the wise are heard in **quiet**, while contention with a fool brings "no **rest**" ([[Ecclesiastes 9:17]], [[Proverbs 29:9]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5183}}` is a multifaceted term that goes beyond a simple definition of rest. It encompasses the passive state of quietness necessary for receiving salvation and wisdom, as well as the active, forceful descent of God's power in both judgment and provision. From the calm words of a wise man to the mighty arm of the LORD, **Nachath** captures a dynamic range of divine and human experience.
TRV