### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nâqaṭ**, represented by `{{H5354}}`, is a primitive root used to express the concepts of being **weary** or to **loathe**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, indicating a very specific and profound sense of exhaustion and disgust, particularly with one's own life.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its single biblical appearance, `{{H5354}}` is used by Job to articulate his extreme emotional and spiritual suffering. He cries out, "My soul is **weary** of my life" [[Job 10:1]]. This declaration is not made in isolation; it is immediately followed by his resolve to "speak in the bitterness of my soul." This connects the feeling of weariness directly to a deep-seated anguish that demands expression.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words found in the same verse help to define the context of this profound weariness:
* `{{H5315}}` **nephesh** (a breathing creature, i.e. animal of (abstractly) vitality;...soul): This is the part of Job that experiences the weariness, identifying the suffering as core to his very being and vitality [[Job 10:1]]. The soul is also what can be restored [[Psalms 23:3]] and is to be guarded diligently [[Deuteronomy 4:9]].
* `{{H4751}}` **mar** (bitter...bitterness): This describes the state of Job's soul from which he is compelled to speak [[Job 10:1]]. This term denotes a deep emotional pain, as seen when it is contrasted with sweetness [[Isaiah 5:20]] or describes the cry of a mighty man in distress [[Zephaniah 1:14]].
* `{{H7879}}` **sîyach** (a contemplation; by implication, an utterance;...complaint, meditation, prayer): This is the action Job takes as a result of his weariness. The feeling leads him to unleash his complaint [[Job 10:1]]. This same word is used to describe pouring out a complaint before the LORD [[Psalms 142:2]] and a prayer to God [[Psalms 64:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5354}}` is derived entirely from its singular, powerful context in Job's lament.
* **Validation of Lament:** The use of `{{H5354}}` within Job's speech gives voice to the legitimacy of feeling utterly weary of life in the face of immense suffering. It is presented as a precursor to honest communication with God.
* **The Soul's Anguish:** By linking this weariness directly to the **nephesh**, or soul `{{H5315}}`, scripture portrays this as more than physical tiredness. It is a state of existential exhaustion that affects a person's core vitality [[Job 10:1]].
* **A Catalyst for Expression:** Job's weariness is not a state of silent defeat. Instead, it acts as the catalyst for him to speak his "complaint" `{{H7879}}` and express the "bitterness" `{{H4751}}` of his soul, demonstrating that profound despair can drive one toward, not away from, divine communication [[Job 10:1]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5354}}` is a rare but potent word capturing a soul's complete exhaustion with its own existence. Though used only once, its placement in Job's cry gives it immense significance. It illustrates a vital aspect of biblical lament, showing how the deepest feelings of loathing and weariness are not endpoints, but can be the very foundation for raw, honest, and ultimately faith-filled expression before God.
TRV