from נוּד; motion (of the lips in speech); moving.
Transliteration:nîyd
Pronunciation:need
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun *nîyd* (`{{H5205}}`) is derived from the verbal root *nûd* (`{{H5110}}`), which fundamentally conveys the idea of wavering, shaking, or moving back and forth. As a noun, *nîyd* encapsulates the concept of "motion" or "moving." While the root *nûd* can describe a general restless or unsettled movement, *nîyd* specifically refers to a particular kind of motion, most notably the movement of the lips in speech. This specialized application highlights the physical act of utterance and the expressive nature of human communication. Its semantic range is thus narrow but profound, focusing on the dynamic aspect of verbal articulation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word *nîyd* (`{{H5205}}`) is notably rare in the Hebrew Bible, appearing primarily in a single, poignant context that illuminates its specific meaning. Its most significant occurrence is found in the book of Job:
* **[[Job 16:5]]**: "But I would strengthen you with my mouth, and the moving of my lips (*w'nîyd s'phatay*) would assuage your grief."
In this verse, Job, in his lament, contrasts his friends' unhelpful counsel with the compassionate support he would offer them if their roles were reversed. The phrase "the moving of my lips" (*w'nîyd s'phatay*) directly refers to the physical act of speaking words of comfort and solace. It is not merely the sound, but the active, intentional articulation of words designed to strengthen and alleviate sorrow. This usage underscores the power and purpose of spoken communication in providing empathy and support, distinguishing it from other forms of "motion" that might signify scorn or aimless wandering. The emphasis is on the deliberate and beneficial use of the mouth and lips for verbal ministry.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **Root *nûd* (`{{H5110}}`)**: The primary verbal root from which *nîyd* is derived. *Nûd* means "to waver, wander, shake, flutter, show grief, bemoan." It often describes unstable or agitated movement, such as wandering in exile ([[Genesis 4:12]], [[Genesis 4:14]]), or the shaking of the head in scorn or pity ([[Psalm 22:7]], [[Lamentations 2:15]] - though these use the verb, not the noun *nîyd*). While *nûd* can imply negative or unstable motion, *nîyd* in its specific application in Job 16:5 takes on a positive, intentional connotation related to speech.
* **Lips (*saphah*, `{{H8193}}`)**: Directly linked with *nîyd* in [[Job 16:5]], emphasizing that the "motion" is specifically that of the lips, the organs of speech.
* **Mouth (*peh*, `{{H6310}}`)**: Also mentioned in [[Job 16:5]] ("with my mouth"), further specifying the source of the comforting words.
* **Speech/Word (*dabar*, `{{H1696}}`)**: The ultimate outcome and purpose of the "motion of the lips" is the production of meaningful and comforting speech.
* **Shake/Agitate (*nûa'*, `{{H5128}}`)**: Another verb related to movement and agitation, often used for physical shaking or tottering, sharing a semantic field with *nûd* but distinct from the specific noun *nîyd*.
### Theological Significance
The singular and specific use of *nîyd* (`{{H5205}}`) in [[Job 16:5]] offers profound theological insight into the nature of human communication and divine expectation. In a book where Job's friends offer anything but comfort, Job's lament highlights the ideal of compassionate speech. The "motion of the lips" is not a mere physical act but the outward manifestation of an inward disposition of empathy and solidarity.
Theologically, this verse underscores the immense power and responsibility inherent in human speech. While the tongue can be an instrument of destruction, slander, or false witness, *nîyd* in this context points to its potential as a vehicle for divine comfort and grace. It suggests that God values the intentional, verbal act of strengthening and assuaging grief among His people. This contrasts sharply with the "shaking of the head" (often from the root *nûd* or *nûa'*) which frequently signifies scorn or derision in other biblical passages. Here, *nîyd* denotes a deliberate, purposeful movement of the lips for positive, life-affirming communication, reflecting a compassionate heart. It serves as a reminder that our words, even in their physical articulation, can be instruments of God's love and healing.
### Summary
*Nîyd* (`{{H5205}}`) is a rare Hebrew noun derived from the root *nûd* (`{{H5110}}`), meaning "motion" or "moving." Its most significant biblical occurrence is in [[Job 16:5]], where it specifically describes the "motion of the lips" (*nîyd s'phatay*) in the context of offering comfort and strength. This usage highlights the profound biblical value placed on compassionate and supportive speech, particularly in times of distress. Unlike other movements associated with its root that can convey scorn or aimless wandering, *nîyd* in [[Job 16:5]] denotes a deliberate, empathetic utterance intended to alleviate suffering. It serves as a powerful theological reminder of the potential for human speech, even its physical articulation, to be an instrument of divine comfort and solidarity among believers, reflecting a heart of true compassion.
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