The Hebrew word neker, represented by H5235, defines something strange or an unexpected calamity. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. Based on its root, it conveys the idea of a strange event, specifically a disastrous one.
In the biblical narrative, H5235 is used to describe severe and unusual misfortune. In Job, it is used to question whether a strange punishment is not the deserved fate for the workers of iniquity Job 31:3. In Obadiah, the term describes the calamitous state of Judah, where Edom is condemned for having "looked on the day of thy brother in the day that he became a stranger" Obadiah 1:12.
Several related words provide context for the situations where neker appears:
- H343 ʼêyd (calamity, destruction): This word for misfortune or ruin is used alongside neker in Job's question about the fate of the wicked Job 31:3. It is also used to warn that the "day of their calamity is at hand" for the unrighteous Deuteronomy 32:35.
- H205 ʼâven (iniquity, vanity, wickedness): Signifying trouble and wickedness, this term identifies those who receive a "strange punishment" in Job 31:3 as "workers of iniquity." It is also used to describe sin that must be forsaken Isaiah 55:7.
- H7200 râʼâh (to see, look, behold): This verb is central to the warning in Obadiah 1:12, where Edom is told they should not have looked upon their brother's strange calamity. The act of seeing is contrasted with God, who does not see as man sees 1 Samuel 16:7.
- H8055 sâmach (to be glad, rejoice): This word is used negatively in Obadiah 1:12, forbidding Edom to have rejoiced over Judah's downfall. This stands in contrast to its frequent use for righteous joy, such as the command to rejoice in the LORD Joel 2:23.
The theological weight of H5235 is concentrated on divine justice and human responsibility.
- Consequence of Sin: The term is explicitly linked to divine retribution. It describes a "strange punishment" that is fitting for the "workers of iniquity" Job 31:3, establishing it as a consequence of wickedness.
- The Sin of Callousness: The word's use in Obadiah 1:12 highlights the moral failure of gloating over another's downfall. To look upon and rejoice when a brother becomes a stranger through calamity is presented as a punishable offense.
- Unexpected Judgment: As its definition implies, neker points to a calamity that is strange or unexpected. It characterizes the shocking nature of judgment that befalls both the wicked and those who have suffered a great disaster.
In summary, H5235 is a specific and powerful term for a calamity that renders one a stranger in their own misfortune. Though rare, its usage in scripture clearly connects the concepts of unusual disaster, divine judgment for iniquity, and the profound moral error of rejoicing in the suffering of others. It illustrates how a single event can be both a punishment for the wicked and a test of character for those who witness it.
TRV