### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nêtser**, represented by `{{H5342}}`, describes a **shoot** or **branch**. Derived from a root suggesting the vibrant greenness of new growth, it figuratively refers to a **descendant**. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses**, making each usage significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{H5342}}` carries both positive and negative connotations. It is famously used in a messianic prophecy where a **Branch** is foretold to come forth and grow from the roots of Jesse [[Isaiah 11:1]]. It also describes God's people as "the **branch** of my planting," identifying them as the work of His hands for His glory [[Isaiah 60:21]]. In stark contrast, it is used to describe a rejected king who is "cast out of thy grave like an abominable **branch**" [[Isaiah 14:19]]. Finally, it is used to denote a descendant who will rise to power with an army [[Daniel 11:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{H5342}}`:
* `{{H8328}}` **sheresh** (root): This term appears alongside **nêtser** to establish the source of the descendant, whether it is the line of Jesse [[Isaiah 11:1]] or a royal family [[Daniel 11:7]]. It is defined as "a root (literally or figuratively)."
* `{{H1503}}` **gezaʻ** (stem, stock): Used in parallel with **nêtser** in [[Isaiah 11:1]], this word signifies "the trunk or stump of a tree," highlighting the established lineage from which the new shoot emerges.
* `{{H7993}}` **shâlak** (to throw out, down or away): This verb is used to describe the fate of the "abominable **branch**" in [[Isaiah 14:19]], providing a powerful contrast to the branch that is divinely planted and nurtured.
* `{{H6509}}` **pârâh** (to bear fruit): This word describes the action of the messianic **Branch** in [[Isaiah 11:1]], emphasizing its purpose to "bear fruit (literally or figuratively)" and grow.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5342}}` is demonstrated through its contrasting applications.
* **Messianic Promise:** The term is a cornerstone of messianic hope, pointing to a righteous descendant from a seemingly dead lineage who will emerge and "grow" [[Isaiah 11:1]].
* **Divine Identity:** It is used to define the identity of God's people as "the **branch** of my planting" `{{H4302}}`, signifying they are a direct work of God, created for His glorification [[Isaiah 60:21]].
* **Symbol of Judgment:** The "abominable **branch**" represents the ultimate state of rejection and dishonor, being "cast out" `{{H7993}}` and associated with the slain `{{H2026}}`, demonstrating the consequence of wickedness [[Isaiah 14:19]].
* **Kingly Succession:** The term illustrates the principle of lineage and authority, where a descendant ("a **branch** of her roots") will "stand up" `{{H5975}}` to claim power and command an army `{{H2428}}`, fulfilling a prophetic destiny [[Daniel 11:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5342}}` is a potent term that transcends its simple botanical definition. As a **shoot** or **descendant**, it encapsulates profound biblical themes of divine promise and judgment. The word is used to frame both the hope of a messianic **Branch** emerging from Jesse's roots and the disgrace of an abominable **branch** cast out from its grave, illustrating how a single shoot can represent either life from a stump or death and rejection.
TRV