### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nâçaç**, represented by `{{H5263}}`, is a primitive root defined as **to wane, i.e. be sick; faint**. This word is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. In its sole biblical appearance, it is part of a powerful simile and is translated as "standardbearer," connecting its root meaning of sickness and fainting to the image of a collapsing figure of strength.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{H5263}}` occurs in a prophecy of divine judgment in [[Isaiah 10:18]]. The verse describes the complete destruction of an enemy's glory, stating it will be so thorough that "they shall be as when a standardbearer{H5263} fainteth{H4549}." This imagery conveys a total collapse, affecting both "soul and body." The use of `{{H5263}}` here creates a picture of a figure who should be a symbol of strength and a rallying point instead succumbing to an internal sickness or weakness, leading to utter defeat.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illuminate the concept of fainting and consumption associated with `{{H5263}}`:
* `{{H4549}}` **mâçaç** (to liquefy; figuratively, to waste (with disease), to faint (with fatigue, fear or grief); discourage, faint, be loosed, melt (away), refuse, [idiom] utterly): This word appears alongside `{{H5263}}` in [[Isaiah 10:18]]. It vividly describes a state of collapse caused by fear or judgment, as when the hearts of the Canaanites "melted" before Israel [[Joshua 2:11]].
* `{{H3615}}` **kâlâh** (a primitive root; to end... cease, consume (away), ... fail, faint, finish): This word shares the meaning of "faint" or "fail" and is used in the same verse to describe the "consuming" of the forest's glory [[Isaiah 10:18]]. It is also used to describe personal fainting, as in, "My flesh and my heart faileth" [[Psalms 73:26]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H5263}}`, though based on a single occurrence, is potent and clear.
* **Total Judgment:** The word contributes to a theme of absolute divine judgment. The collapse is not just external but internal, a complete failing of strength and spirit from the inside out, like a sickness.
* **Collapse of Strength:** By associating sickness and fainting with a "standardbearer," the text illustrates that no amount of human power or pride can withstand God's decreed judgment. Even the ultimate symbol of military might is reduced to a state of helpless failure.
* **Figurative Fainting:** Paired with words like `{{H4549}}`, `{{H5263}}` highlights that the "fainting" is often a spiritual and emotional response to God's presence and power, where hearts "melt" and courage fails completely [[Joshua 5:1]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5263}}` is a highly specific term whose meaning is almost entirely defined by its context in Isaiah. While its root denotes sickness and waning, its use as "standardbearer" in a simile of fainting creates a stark image of strength utterly undone. It serves as a powerful illustration of the totality of divine judgment, where all human might and morale decay and collapse as if stricken by a debilitating illness.
TRV