from נָטַף; a drop; specifically, an aromatic gum (probably stacte); drop, stacte.
Transliteration:nâṭâph
Pronunciation:naw-tawf'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term נָטָף (nâṭâph, `{{H5198}}`) derives from the verb נָטַף (nâṭap, `{{H5197}}`), meaning "to drip," "to drop," or "to distil." Consequently, its primary and literal meaning is "a drop." However, the semantic range extends specifically to an "aromatic gum" or "resin" that naturally exudes or "drops" from a plant. In ancient contexts, this referred to "stacte," a highly prized and fragrant resin. This particular "drop" is not merely any liquid, but a precious, solidified exudation, highlighting its value and specific nature as an ingredient. The connection to the root verb emphasizes the natural process of its formation, a slow, pure distillation from its source.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word נָטָף (nâṭâph, `{{H5198}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in [[Exodus 30:34]]. In this pivotal passage, it is listed as the first of four ingredients for the sacred incense (קְטֹרֶת הַקֹּדֶשׁ, qəṭōreṯ haqqōḏeš) that was to be burned daily on the Altar of Incense in the Tabernacle: "And the LORD said to Moses, 'Take for yourself spices, stacte, and onycha, and galbanum, fragrant spices with pure frankincense; there shall be an equal part of each.'" The specific mention of "stacte" (נָטָף) alongside onycha, galbanum, and frankincense underscores its essential role in a divinely prescribed formula. The text further specifies that this incense was to be "perfume of the perfumer, salted, pure, and holy" ([[Exodus 30:35]]). Its inclusion in this precise, unalterable recipe highlights its unique purity and sacred designation, set apart exclusively for Yahweh's worship.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is the verbal root נָטַף (nâṭap, `{{H5197}}`), from which נָטָף (nâṭâph, `{{H5198}}`) is derived. This verb not only means "to drip" but can also denote "to prophesy" (e.g., [[Amos 7:16]]), implying the "dropping" or "distilling" of divine words. This connection subtly reinforces the idea of something pure and divinely given. Other related concepts include the other ingredients of the sacred incense: onycha, galbanum, and pure frankincense, all of which were aromatic substances contributing to the overall fragrance. The broader context of Tabernacle worship links נָטָף to the sacred anointing oil (e.g., [[Exodus 30:23-25]]) and the sacrificial system, where pleasing aromas (רֵיחַ נִיחֹחַ, rêaḥ nîḥōaḥ) were vital to acceptable offerings to God. The concept of "purity" (קָדוֹשׁ, qāḏôš, `{{H6918}}`) is paramount, as the incense, including נָטָף, was explicitly designated as "holy to the LORD" ([[Exodus 30:37]]).
### Theological Significance
The inclusion of נָטָף (nâṭâph, `{{H5198}}`) in the sacred incense formula carries profound theological weight. First, its divine prescription emphasizes God's meticulousness in commanding the details of worship, ensuring that all aspects of communion with Him are performed according to His will, not human invention. The "drop" of stacte, as a naturally exuded and pure substance, symbolizes an offering of unadulterated devotion. The incense itself, of which נָטָף is an integral part, is a powerful symbol of prayer and worship ascending to God (cf. [[Psalm 141:2]], [[Revelation 5:8]], [[Revelation 8:3-4]]). The pleasant aroma signifies the pleasing nature of acceptable worship to the divine nostrils. Furthermore, the strict prohibition against using this specific incense formula for common purposes ([[Exodus 30:37-38]]) underscores the concept of holiness and separation—that which is consecrated to God is set apart from the profane. Thus, נָטָף contributes to the sensory experience of God's presence in the Tabernacle, a fragrant reminder of His purity, His sovereignty, and the sanctity required in approaching Him.
### Summary
נָטָף (nâṭâph, `{{H5198}}`) signifies a "drop," specifically referring to "stacte," an aromatic gum that naturally exudes from a plant. Its singular biblical occurrence in [[Exodus 30:34]] establishes it as the first of four divinely mandated ingredients for the sacred incense of the Tabernacle. Derived from the verb "to drip," it embodies purity and natural essence, contributing to an offering designated as "pure and holy" to the LORD. Theologically, נָטָף underscores the divine authority in prescribing worship, symbolizes the ascending prayers of a sanctified people, and highlights the absolute purity and separation required in approaching the Holy God. Its presence in the sacred formula reinforces the reverent and meticulous nature of Old Testament worship.
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