### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nâtsâʼ**, represented by `{{H5323}}`, is a primitive root meaning to **flee** or **go away**. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its singular usage provides a highly specific and focused meaning related to urgent departure in the face of impending doom.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H5323}}` is in a prophecy of judgment against Moab. The prophet declares, "Give wings unto Moab, that it may **flee** and get away" [[Jeremiah 48:9]]. In this context, **nâtsâʼ** signifies a desperate and rapid escape, an act made necessary by the coming desolation of Moab's cities. The word is paired with another term for departure to emphasize the totality and finality of the flight.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its biblical context help clarify its meaning:
* `{{H3318}}` **yâtsâʼ** (to go out): Used in the same phrase, "that it may flee and **get away**" [[Jeremiah 48:9]], this word reinforces the theme of departure. It often describes being brought out from a place, whether as a deliverance or as an expulsion, such as when the LORD declares, "let them **go forth**" [[Jeremiah 15:1]].
* `{{H5414}}` **nâthan** (to give): This verb initiates the action in the verse: "**Give** wings unto Moab" [[Jeremiah 48:9]]. The act of fleeing is thus enabled by something that is given. This word is frequently used to describe God's sovereign action, such as His promise to "**give** you an expected end" [[Jeremiah 29:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5323}}` is derived entirely from its pointed use in the context of divine judgment.
* **Consequence of Judgment:** The command to **flee** is a direct result of God's pronounced judgment upon Moab. The subsequent phrase, "for the cities thereof shall be desolate," indicates that escape is the only option left in the face of irreversible ruin [[Jeremiah 48:9]].
* **Urgency of Escape:** The imagery of being given wings to **flee** conveys a sense of extreme urgency. It is not a casual departure but a desperate flight for survival, highlighting the severity of the situation.
* **Enabled Action:** The act of fleeing is directly linked to the command to "**Give** wings" [[Jeremiah 48:9]]. This suggests that even the opportunity to escape is part of the divine declaration, framing the flight as an integral part of the prophetic event.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5323}}` **nâtsâʼ** offers a concise and powerful illustration of flight as a response to divine judgment. Though used only once, its context in [[Jeremiah 48:9]] paints a vivid picture of urgent and necessary escape. It demonstrates how a single, rare word can capture the gravity of a moment, signifying that when judgment is declared, the only recourse is to flee from the coming desolation.
TRV