(Aramaic) corresponding to נָסַח; {to tear away}; pull down.
Transliteration:nᵉçach
Pronunciation:nes-akh'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic verb נְסַח (nᵉçach), corresponding to the Hebrew `{{H5258}}` (nāsaḥ), carries the primary meaning of "to tear away," "to pull down," "to uproot," or "to demolish." This term denotes a forceful and decisive action of removal or destruction. It implies a complete dismantling or eradication, often with a sense of violence or irreversible consequence. The semantic range points to a thorough and unsparing act of demolition, whether of physical structures or, metaphorically, of persons or their standing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb נְסַח (nᵉçach) appears in the Aramaic portions of the Old Testament, specifically in the books of Ezra and Daniel, always in contexts of severe judgment or punitive action.
* **[[Ezra 6:11]]**: In King Darius's decree concerning the rebuilding of the temple, he declares a dire punishment for anyone who alters his edict: "Also I have made a decree, that whosoever shall alter this word, let timber be pulled down from his house, and being set up, let him be hanged thereon; and let his house be made a dunghill for this." Here, נְסַח (nᵉçach) is used in the passive voice, "let timber be pulled down" (יִתְנְסַח), signifying the complete demolition of one's dwelling. This emphasizes the extreme nature of the penalty, designed to deter any interference with the divinely sanctioned work of the temple. The act of pulling down the house signifies utter disgrace and ruin.
* **[[Daniel 2:5]]**: King Nebuchadnezzar issues a terrifying decree to his wise men: "The thing is gone from me: if ye will not make known unto me the dream, with the interpretation thereof, ye shall be cut in pieces, and your houses shall be made a dunghill." The verb is again in the passive, "ye shall be cut in pieces" (תִּתְנַסְּחוּן), indicating a violent tearing apart or dismemberment of the individuals themselves, followed by the demolition of their homes. This usage underscores the king's absolute power and the brutal consequences of failing to meet his demands, highlighting the destructive force inherent in the word.
In both occurrences, נְסַח (nᵉçach) signifies a radical and irreversible act of destruction, whether of property or person, underscoring the severity of the decrees being enforced.
### Related Words & Concepts
The Aramaic נְסַח (nᵉçach) is directly cognate with the Hebrew `{{H5258}}` (nāsaḥ), which also means "to tear away," "to uproot," or "to demolish." This strong linguistic connection reinforces the core meaning of forceful removal and destruction.
Other related concepts and words in biblical Hebrew and Aramaic that convey similar ideas of destruction, overthrow, or removal include:
* `{{H2040}}` (haras): "to break down," "to demolish," often used for walls, cities, or altars.
* `{{H6555}}` (parats): "to break forth," "to break down," often in the context of breaching a wall or barrier.
* `{{H2717}}` (ḥārav): "to lay waste," "to destroy," often referring to the desolation of land or cities.
* `{{H5422}}` (nātsaḥ): While not directly related in root, this Hebrew verb can sometimes imply a complete victory or triumph that might involve the overthrow of an enemy, though its primary meaning is "to excel" or "to be preeminent." However, it is important to note that this is a distinct root from נְסַח.
The common thread among these terms is the idea of bringing something to an end through forceful means, whether by tearing down, breaking apart, or laying waste.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of נְסַח (nᵉçach) primarily lies in its portrayal of absolute authority and the severe consequences of defiance.
1. **Divine Sanctioned Authority**: In [[Ezra 6:11]], the decree of King Darius, though a pagan ruler, is presented as inviolable, especially as it pertains to the rebuilding of God's temple. The extreme punishment, involving the tearing down of one's house, signifies the gravity of opposing a decree that ultimately serves God's purposes. It underscores the principle that even earthly rulers can be instruments through whom divine will is enforced, and resistance to such decrees carries devastating consequences.
2. **Consequences of Disobedience/Defiance**: The brutal punishments associated with נְסַח (nᵉçach) in both [[Ezra 6:11]] and [[Daniel 2:5]] highlight the absolute nature of the authority issuing the decree. It serves as a stark reminder of the dire and complete ruin that awaits those who fail to comply or actively resist. This speaks to the severity of judgment, whether human or ultimately divine, against rebellion or failure to adhere to established truth.
3. **Radical Eradication**: The word's emphasis on "tearing away" or "pulling down" suggests a complete and thorough eradication. It's not merely a removal but a dismantling that leaves nothing behind, often turning what was once a dwelling into a "dunghill." This imagery conveys a sense of total disgrace and irreversible destruction, signifying the complete obliteration of one's standing, property, or even life. It points to the decisive nature of judgment that utterly removes what is deemed unacceptable or in opposition.
### Summary
The Aramaic verb נְסַח (nᵉçach), meaning "to tear away" or "to pull down," powerfully conveys the concept of forceful and complete destruction or removal. Its occurrences in [[Ezra 6:11]] and [[Daniel 2:5]] illustrate its use in contexts of severe punitive actions, involving the demolition of houses and the dismemberment of individuals. Theologically, נְסַח (nᵉçach) underscores the absolute nature of authority and the profound, often violent, consequences for disobedience or opposition. It signifies a radical and irreversible eradication, demonstrating the severity of judgment against those who defy established decrees or divine will.
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