### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **naʻătsûwts**, represented by `{{H5285}}`, refers to a **thorn** or a thicket of thorny bushes. Stemming from an unused root that means to prick, this term appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**. Despite its rarity, it carries significant symbolic weight, representing concepts of desolation and divine transformation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{H5285}}` is used to illustrate two contrasting conditions. In [[Isaiah 7:19]], **thorns** are listed as features of a land under judgment, where invaders will **come** `{{H935}}` and **rest** `{{H5117}}` in **desolate** `{{H1327}}` valleys and upon all **bushes** `{{H5097}}`, signifying ruin. Conversely, [[Isaiah 55:13]] presents a powerful image of restoration, promising that "Instead of the **thorn** `{{H5285}}` shall come up the **fir tree** `{{H1265}}`." This transformation serves as an **everlasting** `{{H5769}}` **sign** `{{H226}}` for the **LORD** `{{H3068}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of `{{H5285}}`:
* `{{H5636}}` **çarpâd** (brier): Used in direct parallel with `{{H5285}}` in [[Isaiah 55:13]], this word reinforces the idea of a harsh, undesirable plant that will be replaced by something beautiful, the **myrtle tree** `{{H1918}}`.
* `{{H1265}}` **bᵉrôwsh** (fir tree): This word represents the positive transformation. The **fir tree** is the beautiful and useful plant that will **come up** `{{H5927}}` in place of the **thorn** `{{H5285}}`, symbolizing blessing and restoration [[Isaiah 55:13]].
* `{{H1327}}` **battâh** (desolate): This term describes the valleys where **thorns** `{{H5285}}` are found in the context of judgment, emphasizing a state of ruin and abandonment [[Isaiah 7:19]].
* `{{H5097}}` **nahălôl** (bush): Mentioned alongside **thorns** in [[Isaiah 7:19]], this word contributes to the image of an overgrown, wild landscape that becomes a dwelling place for an invading force.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5285}}` is centered on its symbolic role in judgment and redemption.
* **Symbol of the Curse:** The presence of **thorns** `{{H5285}}` in [[Isaiah 7:19]] signifies a land under a curse or judgment. It depicts a landscape that has become wild, inhospitable, and overrun, a direct consequence of turning away from God.
* **Promise of Transformation:** In [[Isaiah 55:13]], the replacement of the **thorn** with the **fir tree** is a powerful metaphor for God's redemptive work. It illustrates His ability to reverse the effects of the curse, bringing beauty from ashes and life from desolation.
* **An Everlasting Sign:** The transformation is explicitly for the **LORD's** `{{H3068}}` **name** `{{H8034}}` and serves as an **everlasting** `{{H5769}}` **sign** `{{H226}}` that will not be **cut off** `{{H3772}}`. This shows that God's restoration is not temporary but a permanent testimony to His power and faithfulness.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5285}}` **naʻătsûwts** is a specific and potent term. Though used only twice, it powerfully encapsulates a core biblical theme: the contrast between a state of cursed desolation and divinely wrought restoration. Its use in Isaiah frames the radical change God brings about, turning the worthless and painful into something of beauty and value as a perpetual witness to His glory.
TRV