### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nêkâr**, represented by `{{H5236}}`, defines that which is **foreign**. It appears 35 times across 35 unique verses. The term stems from a root meaning to recognize something as different, and it can refer concretely to a foreigner or abstractly to the concept of heathendom. In scripture, it serves as a critical marker for people, practices, and deities outside of the covenant community of Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H5236}}` is most frequently used to identify "strange gods," representing the core threat of idolatry to Israel's faithfulness. From the patriarchal era, Jacob commanded his household to "Put away the **strange** gods" [[Genesis 35:2]], an act repeated under leaders like Joshua and Samuel ([[Joshua 24:23]]; [[1 Samuel 7:3]]). The LORD warns Moses that Israel will "go a whoring after the gods of the **strangers** of the land" [[Deuteronomy 31:16]], linking foreign deities directly to spiritual infidelity. The term also describes foreign people, such as the "sons of strangers" who will one day rebuild Zion's walls [[Isaiah 60:10]] and the "strange children" from whom the psalmist prays for deliverance ([[Psalms 144:7]], [[Psalms 144:11]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of foreignness and its implications:
* `{{H2114}}` **zûwr** (strange, a foreigner): This root emphasizes turning aside and becoming profane or alien. It is used alongside `{{H5236}}` to describe the consequence of apostasy, where serving strange gods leads to serving **strangers** `{{H2114}}` in a foreign land [[Jeremiah 5:19]].
* `{{H2181}}` **zânâh** (to go a whoring): This term describes spiritual and physical adultery. Scripture explicitly connects the worship of foreign gods with unfaithfulness, warning that Israel will **go a whoring** `{{H2181}}` after the gods of the strangers `{{H5236}}` of the land [[Deuteronomy 31:16]].
* `{{H914}}` **bâdal** (to separate): This word highlights the required response to foreign influence. After the exile, the "seed of Israel **separated** `{{H914}}` themselves from all strangers" [[Nehemiah 9:2]] to restore covenant purity.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5236}}` is significant, primarily defining the boundaries of God's covenant people.
* **Covenant Exclusivity:** The term establishes a clear distinction between Israel and other nations. Regulations concerning the Passover explicitly state that "no **stranger** shall eat thereof" [[Exodus 12:43]]. Similarly, those bought from a **stranger** required circumcision to be included in the covenant community ([[Genesis 17:12]], [[Genesis 17:27]]).
* **The Abomination of Idolatry:** The concept of "strange gods" is central to the Bible's condemnation of idolatry. Serving these gods is described as forsaking the LORD [[Joshua 24:20]], profaning His holiness [[Malachi 2:11]], and committing abomination [[Ezekiel 44:7]]. This sin is the primary cause of judgment and exile [[Jeremiah 5:19]].
* **Prophetic Inclusion:** While often a term of exclusion, prophecy re-frames the "stranger." Isaiah foresees a time when the "sons of the **stranger**" will join themselves to the LORD to serve Him [[Isaiah 56:6]] and minister to His people [[Isaiah 60:10]], indicating a future expansion of the covenant.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5236}}` **nêkâr** is more than just a word for "foreign." It is a foundational concept for understanding covenant identity, the dangers of idolatry, and the call to holiness in the Old Testament. It delineates the line between the sacred and the profane, the covenant member and the outsider. Yet, it also carries a seed of prophetic hope, pointing toward a day when those once considered **strange** would be welcomed into the service of the LORD.
TRV