### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nâçâh**, represented by `{{H5254}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to test**. It is also translated as to attempt, adventure, assay, prove, or tempt. This word appears 36 times across 34 unique verses, highlighting its role in describing critical trials of faith and character.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5254}}` is used to describe tests initiated by both God and man. A foundational use is when God **did tempt** Abraham, putting his obedience to the ultimate test [[Genesis 22:1]]. God also uses trials to **prove** his people, as when he tested Israel in the wilderness to know what was in their hearts and if they would keep His commandments [[Deuteronomy 8:2]]. Conversely, the Israelites are repeatedly warned not to **tempt** the LORD as they did at Massah ([[Deuteronomy 6:16]]; [[Exodus 17:2]]). The term can also describe human-to-human testing, such as when the Queen of Sheba came to **prove** Solomon with hard questions [[1 Kings 10:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of testing and proving:
* `{{H974}}` **bâchan**: This word also means to test or prove, often like examining metals. It is used alongside `{{H5254}}` to describe a thorough examination, as when the psalmist asks God to "Examine me, O LORD, and **prove** me" [[Psalms 26:2]].
* `{{H4531}}` **maççâh**: This noun means a testing or temptation and is derived directly from `{{H5254}}`. God's actions in Egypt are described as being accomplished through **temptations**, signs, and wonders [[Deuteronomy 4:34]].
* `{{H4532}}` **Maççâh**: This is the proper name of a place in the desert, meaning "Temptation." The location was named because the children of Israel **tempted** the LORD there [[Exodus 17:7]].
* `{{H6031}}` **ʻânâh**: Meaning to afflict or humble, this word often describes the purpose or context of a divine test. God led Israel in the wilderness to **humble** them and to **prove** them [[Deuteronomy 8:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5254}}` is significant, illustrating the nature of the relationship between God and humanity.
* **Revealing the Heart:** A primary purpose of God's testing is to reveal the true state of a person's heart. He **proveth** His people to know whether they truly love Him with all their heart and soul [[Deuteronomy 13:3]]. This was also the case with Hezekiah, whom God left "to **try** him, that he might know all that was in his heart" [[2 Chronicles 32:31]].
* **Instilling Godly Fear:** Divine proving is intended to cultivate reverence for God and prevent sin. Moses tells the Israelites that God has come to **prove** them so "that his fear may be before your faces, that ye sin not" [[Exodus 20:20]].
* **Man's Rebellious Testing:** When humans **tempt** God, it is frequently an act of rebellion or doubt. The Israelites tested God in the desert by questioning His presence [[Exodus 17:7]], asking for meat for their lust [[Psalms 78:18]], and provoking Him [[Psalms 78:56]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5254}}` is a multifaceted term that captures the dynamic of testing in the biblical record. It is not exclusively negative but encompasses divine proving intended to reveal character and foster obedience, as well as human tempting that stems from doubt and disobedience. The word is central to understanding key events like the testing of Abraham and Israel's trials in the wilderness, defining a crucial aspect of faith and the covenant relationship with God.
TRV