### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nâʻêm**, represented by `{{H5276}}`, is a root word meaning to be **agreeable**, **pleasant**, or **sweet**. It appears 8 times across 8 unique verses, describing things that are delightful, both literally and figuratively. Its applications range from the tangible appeal of a landscape to the deep satisfaction of a loving relationship or the inner joy of wisdom.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5276}}` is used in several key contexts. It can describe a physical place, as when Jacob saw that the land was **pleasant** and bowed his shoulder to bear tribute [[Genesis 49:15]]. It also conveys deep emotional connection, most notably in David's lament for his friend: "very **pleasant** hast thou been unto me, my brother Jonathan" [[2 Samuel 1:26]]. The term is applied to abstract concepts, such as when **knowledge** is **pleasant** to the soul [[Proverbs 2:10]] or when there is **delight** for those who rebuke evil [[Proverbs 24:25]]. Conversely, it can illustrate the deceptive allure of sin, where stolen bread eaten in secret is described as **pleasant** [[Proverbs 9:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of what is agreeable and good:
* `{{H160}}` **ʼahăbâh** (love): This word for affection is directly linked to `{{H5276}}`, as seen in the description of love being **pleasant** [[Song of Solomon 7:6]] and in David's lament for Jonathan, whose **love** was wonderful [[2 Samuel 1:26]].
* `{{H2451}}` **chokmâh** (wisdom): The delight described by `{{H5276}}` is often intellectual and spiritual. When **wisdom** enters the heart, knowledge becomes **pleasant** to the soul [[Proverbs 2:10]].
* `{{H2896}}` **ṭôwb** (good): This term is often used alongside `{{H5276}}` to describe a state of blessing and agreeableness. Jacob saw that rest was **good** and the land was **pleasant** [[Genesis 49:15]], and a **good** blessing comes to those who find **delight** in rebuking evil [[Proverbs 24:25]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5276}}` lies in its ability to define the nature of true and false pleasure.
* **The Delight of Wisdom:** Godly **wisdom** and **knowledge** are presented not merely as duties but as sources of genuine pleasure and satisfaction for the **soul** [[Proverbs 2:10]].
* **The Pleasantness of Righteous Rebuke:** Contrary to worldly thinking, there is a **delight** and a **good** **blessing** that results from confronting and rebuking evil [[Proverbs 24:25]].
* **The Deception of Sin:** The word is used to show the false appeal of sin. Stolen waters and secret bread are called **pleasant**, highlighting the temporary, illicit satisfaction that leads away from true delight [[Proverbs 9:17]].
* **The Beauty of Relationship:** The word captures the profound joy of human connection, particularly in David's description of his bond with **Jonathan** as exceedingly **pleasant** [[2 Samuel 1:26]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5276}}` is more than a simple descriptor; it is a word that evaluates what is truly agreeable. It encompasses the pleasure of the physical world, the profound joy of relationships, and the deep, internal delight of spiritual wisdom. By using the same term for both righteous and sinful pleasures, Scripture draws a sharp contrast between the fleeting agreeableness of transgression and the lasting, blessed delight found in a life of wisdom and righteousness.
TRV