### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nâphash**, represented by `{{H5314}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to breathe**. Figuratively, it describes being passively breathed upon and therefore **refreshed**, as if by a current of air. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, illustrating a concept of renewal that follows a period of rest or exertion.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H5314}}` is applied to God, humanity, and even animals in the context of rest. God himself sets the precedent after creation, when on the seventh day He "rested, and was **refreshed**" [[Exodus 31:17]]. This divine pattern is then extended to humanity in the Sabbath law, which commands a day of rest so that "the son of thy handmaid, and the stranger, may be **refreshed**" [[Exodus 23:12]]. The word also describes physical restoration from exhaustion, as when King David and his people arrived weary and "**refreshed** themselves" [[2 Samuel 16:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the state of being refreshed:
* `{{H7673}}` **shâbath** (to repose, i.e. desist from exertion): This word for ceasing from work is used directly alongside `nâphash` in both [[Exodus 23:12]] and [[Exodus 31:17]], indicating that refreshment is a result of this cessation.
* `{{H5117}}` **nûwach** (to rest, i.e. settle down): In the Sabbath law of [[Exodus 23:12]], this term is used for the resting of the ox and ass, showing a parallel concept of rest that allows for the refreshment of others.
* `{{H5889}}` **ʻâyêph** (languid; faint, thirsty, weary): This word describes the state of being **weary** that precedes refreshment. In [[2 Samuel 16:14]], the people arrived weary and then `nâphash` (refreshed themselves), establishing a clear contrast.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5314}}` is tied to the principle of Sabbath and divine restoration.
* **A Divine Pattern:** The first use of the word describes God being refreshed after His creative work [[Exodus 31:17]]. This establishes refreshment not merely as a human need, but as part of a divine order of work and renewal.
* **Sabbath Restoration:** The term elevates the Sabbath from a simple cessation of labor (`shâbath`) to a time of intentional restoration. The purpose of the rest is so that all, including the laborer and the stranger, can be truly refreshed [[Exodus 23:12]].
* **Recovery from Weariness:** `nâphash` illustrates the tangible relief provided after a period of being weary (`ʻâyêph`). It points to a recovery that is both physical and, by extension, spiritual.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5314}}` captures a profound concept of renewal. Though it appears only three times, it connects the physical act of breathing to the spiritual and physical restoration that follows rest. From God's own refreshment after creation to the mandated Sabbath for humanity and the recovery of a weary king, `nâphash` signifies a complete restoration that is a cornerstone of biblical life and theology.
TRV