### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **neçek**, represented by `{{H5262}}`, refers to a **libation** or **drink offering**, and also a **cast idol** or **molten image**. It appears 64 times across 62 unique verses in the Bible. The term originates from the root `{{H5258}}` **nâçak**, which means to pour out or to cast metal, reflecting its dual application to both liquid offerings and crafted idols.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Biblically, `{{H5262}}` is used in two opposing contexts: legitimate worship and forbidden idolatry. As a **drink offering**, it was a prescribed part of the sacrificial system given to Israel, often consisting of wine poured out alongside other offerings ([[Exodus 29:40]], [[Leviticus 23:13]]). In contrast, the term is frequently used to describe idolatrous practices, such as pouring out **drink offerings** to the "queen of heaven" [[Jeremiah 44:17]] or other gods [[Jeremiah 7:18]]. In its second primary meaning as a **molten image**, it is condemned as falsehood and a creation with no breath in it ([[Jeremiah 10:14]], [[Jeremiah 51:17]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and meaning of `{{H5262}}`:
* `{{H5258}}` **nâçak** (to pour out, especially a libation, or to cast (metal)): This is the primitive root from which **neçek** is derived. It describes the physical action associated with both meanings, whether pouring a **drink offering** [[Jeremiah 44:17]] or casting an image [[Isaiah 40:19]].
* `{{H5930}}` **ʻôlâh** (a holocaust... burnt offering): The drink offering is almost always presented alongside the **burnt offering**. They are listed together as required elements of worship for feasts, sabbaths, and new moons [[Ezekiel 45:17]].
* `{{H4503}}` **minchâh** (a donation... a sacrificial offering (usually bloodless and voluntary)): This **meat offering** is another key component of the sacrificial system, frequently listed with the burnt offering and **drink offering** to form a complete act of worship ([[Joel 1:13]], [[Numbers 29:39]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H5262}}` is found in its contrasting applications.
* **An Act of Worship:** The **drink offering** was an ordained act of devotion to God, as seen when Jacob poured one upon a pillar he set up [[Genesis 35:14]]. It was also a central element in the people's rebellion, where they poured out **drink offerings** to other gods to provoke the LORD to anger [[Jeremiah 7:18]].
* **Idolatry and Emptiness:** When used to mean **molten image**, the word carries a strong condemnation of idolatry. These images are described as "falsehood" [[Jeremiah 51:17]] and "wind and confusion" [[Isaiah 41:29]], highlighting the futility of worshiping man-made objects.
* **A Component of Complete Sacrifice:** The **drink offering** was a necessary part of the larger system of offerings. Its absence was a sign of divine judgment and a cause for mourning among the priests, as when the **meat offering** and the **drink offering** were cut off from the house of the LORD ([[Joel 1:9]], [[Joel 1:13]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5262}}` is a word with a significant duality. It represents both a legitimate **drink offering** within the divinely prescribed worship of God and a forbidden **molten image** or idolatrous libation. Its use throughout Scripture highlights the critical distinction between true worship, which is carefully ordered and directed toward the LORD, and false worship, which is repeatedly condemned as empty, false, and an abomination.
TRV