### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term נְקֻדָּה (nᵉquddâh), transliterated as `{{H5351}}`, is derived from the root נָקֹד (nâqod), `{{H5348}}`, which fundamentally conveys the idea of "spotted" or "dotted." As a feminine noun, nᵉquddâh literally signifies a "point" or "dot." Its semantic range, as indicated by the base definition, extends to concrete objects like a "boss" or "stud," implying a raised or prominent point, often ornamental. The core concept remains that of a distinct, perhaps sharp or protruding, mark or point.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term נְקֻדָּה (nᵉquddâh) appears only once in the Masoretic Text, found in the book of Ezekiel:
* **[[Ezekiel 28:24]]**: "And there shall no more be a pricking brier unto the house of Israel, nor any grieving thorn of all that are round about them, that despised them; and they shall know that I am the Lord GOD."
In this singular occurrence, nᵉquddâh is translated by various versions as "pricking brier" (KJV, ESV, NASB) or "pricking thorn" (NIV). This usage is clearly metaphorical. The literal sense of a "point" or "stud" is extended to the sharp, painful point of a thorn or brier. In the context of Ezekiel's prophecy against Tyre and other nations, the "house of Israel" is promised relief from the constant affliction caused by its hostile neighbors. These nations are depicted as irritating, painful, and persistent sources of torment, akin to a sharp thorn constantly pricking. The prophetic promise is that these sources of pain will be removed, leading to Israel's peace and the recognition of Yahweh's sovereignty. The word, therefore, encapsulates the persistent, painful irritation inflicted by external enemies.
### Related Words & Concepts
The root נָקֹד (nâqod), `{{H5348}}`, forms the basis for nᵉquddâh. Other related words include:
* נָקֹד (nâqôd), `{{H5349}}`: An adjective meaning "spotted," used to describe animals, as seen in [[Genesis 30:32]].
* נְקֻדִּים (neqûdîm), `{{H5350}}`: A plural noun also meaning "spotted," referring to speckled or spotted livestock, as in [[Genesis 31:8]].
These related terms consistently revolve around the idea of distinct marks, spots, or points. While `{{H5351}}` applies this concept to a physical "stud" or, metaphorically, to a "pricking point," the underlying semantic thread is the presence of a notable, often small but distinct, mark or protrusion. Conceptually, in its biblical usage, nᵉquddâh evokes ideas of persistent affliction, hostile opposition, and divine deliverance from torment.
### Theological Significance
Despite its solitary appearance, the theological significance of nᵉquddâh in [[Ezekiel 28:24]] is profound. It serves as a vivid metaphor for the relentless and painful harassment that the people of Israel endured from surrounding nations. These "pricking briers" represent the constant irritation, opposition, and suffering inflicted by those who despised God's chosen people.
The divine promise to remove this nᵉquddâh underscores several key theological truths:
1. **Divine Sovereignty and Protection**: God is actively involved in the affairs of His people and the nations. He sees their suffering and promises to intervene on their behalf.
2. **Cessation of Affliction**: The removal of the "pricking brier" signifies a future state of peace and security for Israel, free from external torment. This points to God's ultimate plan for the well-being and restoration of His covenant people.
3. **Recognition of God's Lordship**: The outcome of this divine intervention is that the nations, and Israel, "shall know that I am the Lord GOD." The removal of the nᵉquddâh is a demonstration of Yahweh's power, justice, and faithfulness, leading to a deeper understanding and acknowledgment of His supreme authority.
Thus, nᵉquddâh, though a small word, powerfully communicates the nature of persistent human suffering at the hands of enemies and the certainty of divine deliverance.
### Summary
The Hebrew word נְקֻדָּה (nᵉquddâh), `{{H5351}}`, stems from a root meaning "spotted" or "dotted," and fundamentally denotes a "point" or "stud." Its sole biblical occurrence is in [[Ezekiel 28:24]], where it is used metaphorically as a "pricking brier" or "thorn." This metaphor powerfully illustrates the persistent and painful affliction caused by hostile nations surrounding Israel. The theological significance of nᵉquddâh lies in its portrayal of human suffering from external enemies, juxtaposed with God's sovereign promise to remove these sources of torment, thereby ensuring the peace of His people and demonstrating His ultimate Lordship to all. It is a rare but potent word, encapsulating both the reality of affliction and the certainty of divine intervention.
TRV