### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Nôphach**, represented by `{{H5302}}`, is the proper name for **Nophah**, a place in Moab. Its name is derived from a root word meaning "a gust." This name is one of the rarest in scripture, as it appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of **Nôphach** occurs in the context of a military conquest described in the book of Numbers. The verse recounts a successful campaign, stating, "we have laid them waste even unto **Nophah**" [[Numbers 21:30]]. In this passage, **Nophah** is listed as a geographical point marking the extent of the destruction inflicted upon Moabite territories, alongside other locations like Heshbon and Dibon.
### Related Words & Concepts
The verse where `{{H5302}}` appears connects it to several other key Hebrew words that describe the action taking place:
* `{{H3384}}` **yârâh**: This word means "to shoot" an arrow or "to throw." In its only context, **Nophah** is part of a territory that has been shot at [[Numbers 21:30]]. The word can also figuratively mean to "teach" or cause to "rain," as seen in passages like [[Psalms 25:12]] and [[Hosea 10:12]].
* `{{H6}}` **ʼâbad**: This primitive root means "to perish" or "destroy." It is used in the same verse to describe the fate of the city of Heshbon, setting the scene for the desolation that reaches **Nophah** [[Numbers 21:30]].
* `{{H8074}}` **shâmêm**: Meaning to "devastate" or "make desolate," this word is used to describe the fate of the region including **Nophah** [[Numbers 21:30]]. It is also used elsewhere to describe heritages made desolate [[Isaiah 49:8]] or a land lying desolate to fulfill its sabbaths [[2 Chronicles 36:21]].
### Theological Significance
While a minor place name, the mention of `{{H5302}}` carries contextual significance within its narrative.
* **Marker of Judgment:** The inclusion of **Nophah** serves to define the geographical scope of the judgment and conquest being described. Its mention emphasizes the totality of the military action, which reached "even unto **Nophah**" [[Numbers 21:30]].
* **Symbol of Desolation:** As a place that was "laid them waste" `{{H8074}}`, **Nophah** becomes an example of the transience of cities and territories in the face of conflict and divine will. It is tied directly to the concept of desolation in its only scriptural appearance.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5302}}` **Nôphach** is not a theological term but a specific, geographical place name, **Nophah**. Its sole importance in the biblical text is to function as a landmark in the account of a conquest in Moab. Its single appearance in [[Numbers 21:30]] places it firmly in a context of destruction and desolation, serving as a testament to the events described in that narrative.
TRV