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.
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.
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.
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.
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