### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nâṭâph**, represented by `{{H5198}}`, signifies a **drop**. It appears just **2 times** in **2 unique verses**. The word holds a dual meaning, referring both to a literal **drop** of liquid and, more specifically, to an aromatic gum known as **stacte**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The uses of `{{H5198}}` show its two distinct applications. In [[Exodus 30:34]], it is listed as **stacte**, one of the **sweet spices** `{{H5561}}` that the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` commanded **Moses** `{{H4872}}` to **take** `{{H3947}}` for the sacred incense. It was combined with **onycha** `{{H7827}}`, **galbanum** `{{H2464}}`, and **pure** `{{H2134}}` **frankincense** `{{H3828}}`. In a completely different context, [[Job 36:27]] uses the word to mean literal **drops** of **water** `{{H4325}}`, describing how God "maketh small the **drops** of **water**" which then become **rain** `{{H4306}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the contexts in which **nâṭâph** is found:
* `{{H5561}}` **çam** (an aroma; sweet (spice)): This word appears multiple times in the instructions for the holy incense, highlighting that **stacte** was a key component of the **sweet spices** [[Exodus 30:34]].
* `{{H2134}}` **zak** (clear; clean, pure): Used to describe the quality of the **frankincense** `{{H3828}}` mixed with **stacte**, emphasizing the holiness and perfection required for the sacred formula [[Exodus 30:34]]. It is also used to describe things like **pure** oil for the light [[Leviticus 24:2]].
* `{{H1639}}` **gâraʻ** (to scrape off; by implication, to shave, remove, lessen, withhold): This verb is used in [[Job 36:27]] to describe the action of God making the **drops** `{{H5198}}` of water small, demonstrating His control over the natural world.
* `{{H4306}}` **mâṭar** (rain; rain): This is the direct result of the process described in [[Job 36:27]], where the small **drops** `{{H5198}}` of water pour down as **rain**.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H5198}}` is seen in its two distinct applications:
* **Component of Holy Worship:** As **stacte**, `{{H5198}}` was a mandatory ingredient in the sacred incense offered to the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` [[Exodus 30:34]]. This highlights that worship involves specific, divinely appointed elements, and the offering of precious and aromatic substances is a tangible act of reverence.
* **Illustration of God's Power:** As **drops** of water, `{{H5198}}` is used to describe God's control over creation. The act of making the drops of water small demonstrates His power over the fundamental processes of nature, such as the formation of **rain** `{{H4306}}` from **vapour** `{{H108}}` [[Job 36:27]].
* **Significance in Minuteness:** In both contexts, a small "drop" holds great importance. A single drop of aromatic resin contributes to the holy perfume, and countless drops of water sustain life. This shows how God employs small, seemingly insignificant elements to accomplish His grand purposes in both worship and creation.
### Summary
In summary, **nâṭâph** `{{H5198}}` is a concise term with a rich, dual application. While appearing only twice, it functions first as **stacte**, a specific ingredient in the holy incense for worship [[Exodus 30:34]], and second as **drops** of water, a fundamental part of the natural cycle of rain [[Job 36:27]]. The word uniquely bridges the concepts of sacred ritual and the natural world, demonstrating that God's authority and attention to detail extend from the altar of worship to the smallest elements of His creation.
TRV