from נָסַךְ; properly, something poured out, i.e. a libation; also a molten image; by implication, a prince (as anointed); drink offering, duke, prince(-ipal).
Transliteration:nᵉçîyk
Pronunciation:nes-eek'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H5257}}` (nᵉçîyk) derives from the root verb `{{H5258}}` (nāsak), which primarily means "to pour out" or "to cast (metal)." This foundational meaning gives rise to the diverse semantic range of `{{H5257}}`.
1. **"Something poured out" / "Libation" / "Drink Offering":** This is the most direct and frequent usage, referring to the ritualistic pouring of liquid (wine, water, or oil) as an offering to God. It symbolizes dedication, devotion, and covenantal commitment.
2. **"Molten Image":** This meaning also directly relates to the root "to pour out" or "to cast," specifically referring to idols formed by pouring molten metal into a mold. This represents a stark contrast to true worship.
3. **"Prince" / "Duke":** This application is by implication, often understood as "one who is anointed" (by pouring oil) or one upon whom authority/power has been "poured out." It signifies a leader, ruler, or dignitary, often with an emphasis on their established authority or position.
Thus, `{{H5257}}` encapsulates a fascinating semantic spectrum, ranging from sacred ritual to idolatrous practice, and from spiritual dedication to earthly authority, all stemming from the fundamental concept of "pouring out."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
`{{H5257}}` appears in various contexts throughout the Hebrew Bible, illuminating its distinct meanings:
* **As "Drink Offering" (Libation):** This is the most common usage, particularly in the Pentateuch, where it denotes a prescribed element of the sacrificial system.
* In the book of Numbers, `{{H5257}}` is extensively used in the detailed instructions for daily, Sabbath, New Moon, and festival offerings (e.g., [[Numbers 28:7]], [[Numbers 28:14]], [[Numbers 29:6]], [[Numbers 29:16]], [[Numbers 29:37]], [[Numbers 29:40]]). These passages specify the precise quantity of wine or strong drink to be poured out alongside burnt offerings and grain offerings, emphasizing the meticulous nature of Israelite worship.
* A poignant instance is found in [[1 Chronicles 11:18]] and [[1 Chronicles 11:19]], where David's mighty men retrieve water from Bethlehem for him, and David, deeming it "the blood of the men who went at the risk of their lives," refuses to drink it and pours it out as a `{{H5257}}` to the Lord. This act transforms a personal sacrifice into a sacred offering, highlighting the reverence associated with the libation.
* [[Daniel 11:8]] also refers to "their gods with their molten images and their precious vessels of silver and gold" and "their princes with their precious vessels," where `{{H5257}}` could refer to drink offerings or princes.
* **As "Molten Image":** This usage highlights the perversion of the "pouring out" concept into idolatry.
* [[Isaiah 41:29]] condemns idols as "molten images" (parallel to "wind and confusion"), utterly devoid of power or substance.
* [[Isaiah 48:5]] speaks of God declaring future events so that Israel cannot attribute them to their "molten images."
* In [[Jeremiah 10:14]] and [[Jeremiah 51:17]], the prophet declares that "every goldsmith is put to shame by his `{{H5257}}`" because their idols are "falsehood" and "no breath is in them." This directly contrasts the lifelessness of human-made gods with the living God.
* **As "Prince" / "Duke":** This usage often refers to foreign rulers or leaders.
* [[Joshua 13:21]] lists the "dukes of Sihon" (Midianite princes) whom Moses struck down.
* [[Psalms 83:11]] invokes judgment upon Israel's enemies, recalling the fate of "Oreb and Zeeb, all their `{{H5257}}`" (princes).
* [[Ezekiel 32:30]] mentions the "princes of the North" who are brought down to the pit.
* [[Micah 5:5]] (MT 5:4) refers to the "seven shepherds and eight `{{H5257}}` of men" raised up against Assyria, indicating leaders or mighty ones.
* [[Daniel 11:8]] (as noted above) also refers to "princes" (of Egypt).
The contextual analysis reveals a deliberate choice of `{{H5257}}` to evoke the idea of something "poured out" – whether it is a sacred offering, a cast idol, or a leader upon whom authority has been bestowed.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of `{{H5257}}` is enriched by examining its relationship to other Hebrew terms:
* **Root Verb `{{H5258}}` (nāsak):** This is the fundamental connection. `{{H5258}}` itself means "to pour out" (e.g., [[Genesis 35:14]] where Jacob pours a drink offering), "to cast" (e.g., [[Isaiah 30:1]] where counsel is "poured out" or "cast"), and even "to anoint" (though less common in this specific sense, the connection to pouring oil is clear). The noun `{{H5257}}` directly embodies these actions.
* **`{{H4542}}` (massēkāh):** This is a closely related noun, also derived from `{{H5258}}`, meaning "molten image" or "cast idol." It is often used interchangeably with `{{H5257}}` in the context of idolatry (e.g., [[Exodus 32:4]] regarding the golden calf). The semantic overlap underscores the strong condemnation of such objects.
* **Other Offerings:** `{{H5257}}` as a "drink offering" stands alongside other types of sacrifices:
* `{{H5930}}` (‘ōlāh): Burnt offering, wholly consumed by fire, symbolizing complete dedication.
* `{{H4503}}` (minḥāh): Grain offering, often accompanying burnt offerings.
* `{{H2077}}` (zevaḥ): General term for sacrifice, often a peace offering.
The `{{H5257}}` (drink offering) was typically an accompaniment, signifying the completion and dedication of the main sacrifice.
* **Leadership Terms:** When referring to "prince" or "duke," `{{H5257}}` intersects with other terms for authority:
* `{{H8269}}` (śar): A common and broad term for chief, prince, ruler, or official.
* `{{H5387}}` (nāśî’): Prince, leader, chief, often used for tribal heads or leaders of the community.
* `{{H4428}}` (melek): King.
The unique nuance of `{{H5257}}` in this context lies in its implied connection to anointing or the bestowal of authority, distinguishing it from a merely titular leader.
### Theological Significance
The theological implications of `{{H5257}}` are profound, touching upon core themes of worship, idolatry, and divine sovereignty.
1. **True Worship and Dedication:** As a "drink offering," `{{H5257}}` represents a profound act of worship. It is a bloodless offering, yet deeply symbolic. The pouring out of precious liquid signifies the pouring out of one's life, devotion, and resources to God. It is an act of total surrender and recognition of divine ownership. The meticulous instructions in the Law highlight God's desire for ordered, intentional, and heartfelt worship, where every detail, even the "pouring out," carries meaning. It speaks to the covenant relationship, where Israel's obedience and devotion are expressed through prescribed rituals.
2. **The Abomination of Idolatry:** In stark contrast, `{{H5257}}` as a "molten image" represents the epitome of false worship. Idols are human constructs, "poured out" by human hands, yet they are vain, lifeless, and powerless. The prophets vehemently condemn the creation and worship of such images, as they usurp God's unique sovereignty and glory. This usage underscores the theological principle that God is Spirit and cannot be confined to or represented by physical forms. It highlights the folly and spiritual danger of seeking ultimate reality in that which is made rather than the Maker.
3. **Divine Appointment and Earthly Authority:** The application of `{{H5257}}` to "princes" or "dukes" carries a subtle but significant theological undertone. While often referring to foreign, non-covenantal rulers, the implied connection to "anointing" suggests a recognition that even earthly authority, in some sense, is "poured out" or bestowed by a higher power. This aligns with the broader biblical principle that all authority ultimately derives from God (e.g., [[Romans 13:1]]). Even when used for adversaries, it acknowledges their position as established, perhaps by divine allowance, if not direct anointing.
In essence, `{{H5257}}` serves as a linguistic lens through which to view humanity's relationship with the divine: either in faithful, dedicated worship through pouring out devotion to the true God, or in rebellious, futile worship through pouring out effort to create and serve false gods, or in the recognition of established authority, whether divinely sanctioned or permitted.
### Summary
The Hebrew term `{{H5257}}` (nᵉçîyk) is a rich and multifaceted word, stemming from the root `{{H5258}}` meaning "to pour out." Its semantic range extends to three primary meanings: a "drink offering" (a sacred libation poured out to God), a "molten image" (an idol cast from poured metal), and a "prince" or "duke" (one upon whom authority has been poured out or who is anointed).
Biblical occurrences demonstrate this versatility. As a "drink offering," `{{H5257}}` is a vital component of Mosaic worship, symbolizing complete dedication and covenantal fidelity. As a "molten image," it represents the emptiness and condemnation of idolatry, standing in stark opposition to the living God. As a "prince," it denotes a leader or ruler, often a foreign dignitary, implying a position of established authority.
Theologically, `{{H5257}}` encapsulates a profound tension: the sacred act of pouring out devotion to the Creator versus the profane act of pouring out effort to create and worship false deities. It also subtly points to the divine source of all authority, even among earthly rulers. This single term thus illuminates core biblical themes of worship, idolatry, and sovereignty, showcasing the depth and precision of the Hebrew lexicon.
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