from an unused root meaning to bore; a cleft; hole.
Transliteration:nâqîyq
Pronunciation:naw-keek'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term H5357 (נָקִיק, *nâqîyq*) derives from an unused root signifying "to bore" or "to pierce." This etymology immediately suggests a narrow, penetrating opening. As a noun, *nâqîyq* refers to a "cleft" or "hole," specifically implying a fissure, crevice, or narrow passage typically found within rocky terrain. Unlike a broad cave (e.g., `{{H4631}}` *mᵉ‘ārâh*), *nâqîyq* denotes a more confined, often deep and winding natural incision in stone. Its semantic range is limited to these geological formations, emphasizing their often inaccessible, hidden, or formidable nature. The word evokes imagery of places carved out by natural forces, offering potential refuge or serving as desolate, uninhabited dwelling places.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Despite its evocative imagery, H5357 appears only twice in the Hebrew Bible, both times in prophetic contexts, highlighting its specific and powerful connotations.
1. **[[Isaiah 7:19]]**: "And they shall come, and shall rest all of them in the desolate valleys, and in the clefts of the rocks, and upon all thorns, and upon all bushes."
In this passage, *nâqîyq* is used to describe the pervasive nature of the impending Assyrian and Egyptian invasion of Judah. The "clefts of the rocks" (נְקִיקֵי הַסְּלָעִים, *nᵉqîqê hassᵉlā‘îm*) represent the hidden, rugged, and seemingly uninhabitable parts of the land. The invaders will not merely occupy the fertile plains but will penetrate every corner, even the most desolate and inaccessible, signifying the utter devastation and thoroughness of God's judgment through these foreign powers. Here, *nâqîyq* underscores the inescapable reach of divine decree.
2. **[[Jeremiah 49:16]]**: "Your terror has deceived you, and the pride of your heart, O you who dwell in the clefts of the rock, who hold the height of the hill; though you make your nest as high as the eagle, I will bring you down from there, declares the LORD."
Here, *nâqîyq* again appears in the phrase "clefts of the rock" (בְּנִקְרֹות הַסֶּלַע, *bᵉniqrōṯ hassela‘*, though some texts have *nᵉqîqê hassela‘* or similar, and the context strongly aligns with the meaning of H5357). This verse is part of the prophecy against Edom, whose capital, Sela (Petra), was renowned for its impregnable location within deep rock formations. The "clefts of the rock" symbolize Edom's perceived security and the pride derived from its naturally fortified dwelling. The prophet declares that despite their lofty and seemingly unassailable position, God will humble them. The *nâqîyq* here represents a false sense of security based on human ingenuity and natural defenses, which ultimately cannot withstand divine judgment.
In both instances, *nâqîyq* is intrinsically linked with *sela‘* (`{{H5553}}`), the term for "rock" or "cliff," emphasizing its geological context.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of a "cleft" or "hole" in rock relates to several other Hebrew terms and broader biblical themes:
* **`{{H5553}}` (סֶלַע, *sela‘*)**: "Rock," "cliff." As seen in the occurrences of *nâqîyq*, this word often accompanies it, providing the broader context of the rocky environment. *Sela‘* itself can denote a place of refuge, strength, or a formidable obstacle.
* **`{{H2634}}` (חֹר, *ḥōr*)**: "Hole," "cave," "den." While similar in meaning, *ḥōr* can be more general, referring to any kind of hole, whereas *nâqîyq* specifically implies a narrow, natural fissure in rock.
* **`{{H4631}}` (מְעָרָה, *mᵉ‘ārâh*)**: "Cave." This term usually denotes a larger, more cavernous opening, often used for dwelling or burial (e.g., the Cave of Machpelah). *Nâqîyq* is distinct in its narrow, fissure-like quality.
* **Concepts of Refuge and Security:** The "clefts of the rock" naturally suggest places of hiding or defense. Biblically, these can be literal refuges (e.g., David hiding from Saul) or symbolic of false security, as seen in Jeremiah.
* **Divine Sovereignty and Judgment:** The use of *nâqîyq* in prophetic contexts underscores God's ability to penetrate all defenses and bring judgment even to the most hidden or fortified places.
### Theological Significance
Though rare, the word *nâqîyq* carries significant theological weight, particularly in its association with human pride and divine judgment.
1. **The Folly of False Security:** In Jeremiah's prophecy against Edom, the "clefts of the rock" serve as a potent symbol of human self-reliance and pride. Edom trusted in its impregnable natural fortresses, believing itself secure from any threat. The *nâqîyq* thus becomes a theological metaphor for any human endeavor or stronghold that attempts to provide ultimate security apart from God. The divine declaration, "though you make your nest as high as the eagle, I will bring you down from there," asserts God's absolute sovereignty over all human defenses, natural or man-made. This highlights the biblical truth that true security is found only in the Lord.
2. **The Pervasiveness of Divine Judgment:** In Isaiah, the invading forces settling in the "clefts of the rocks" illustrates the comprehensive nature of God's judgment. No part of the land, however remote or inaccessible, will escape the consequences of Judah's unfaithfulness. This emphasizes that God's reach extends to every hidden corner, and there is no escape from His righteous decrees. The *nâqîyq* here signifies the thoroughness and inevitability of divine action.
3. **Contrast with God as True Refuge:** The vulnerability of the *nâqîyq* as a place of human security stands in stark contrast to the biblical portrayal of God Himself as the ultimate "Rock" and "Refuge" (e.g., [[Psalm 18:2]], [[Psalm 31:3]]). While natural clefts offer temporary, fallible protection, the divine Rock provides eternal, unshakeable security for those who trust in Him. The word subtly underscores the distinction between relying on the created world versus relying on the Creator.
### Summary
The Hebrew word H5357 (נָקִיק, *nâqîyq*), meaning "cleft" or "hole" in rock, is a rare but powerful term in the biblical lexicon. Derived from a root meaning "to bore," it specifically denotes a narrow, often deep fissure in rocky terrain. Its two occurrences in Isaiah [[Isaiah 7:19]] and Jeremiah [[Jeremiah 49:16]] are highly significant. In Isaiah, *nâqîyq* illustrates the pervasive and inescapable nature of God's judgment through invading armies, reaching even the most desolate and hidden parts of the land. In Jeremiah, it symbolizes the false security and pride of Edom, who trusted in their naturally fortified dwelling in the "clefts of the rock." The theological import of *nâqîyq* lies in its portrayal of human reliance on physical or natural defenses as ultimately futile against divine sovereignty. It serves as a stark reminder that no earthly stronghold, however formidable, can withstand God's purposes, and true security is found only in Him.
TRV