### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nissêʼth**, represented by `{{H5379}}`, translates to **gift**. It is defined as "something taken, i.e. a present" and is derived from the passive participle feminine of נָשָׂא (nâsâʼ). This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in a single verse in the entire Bible, making its specific context crucial to its meaning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H5379}}` is in [[2 Samuel 19:42]], during a heated dispute between the men of Israel `{{H3478}}` and the men of Judah `{{H3063}}`. The men of Judah answer the angry `{{H2734}}` men of Israel by defending their allegiance to the king `{{H4428}}`, stating their loyalty is based on kinship. To prove their motives are pure, they rhetorically ask, "...or hath he given us any **gift**?" This question uses `{{H5379}}` to imply they have not been bribed or received any special payment for their support.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller understanding of the context surrounding this unique term:
* `{{H5375}}` **nâsâʼ** (give, lift, take): This is the primitive root from which **nissêʼth** is derived. Its broad meaning encompasses everything from lifting up one's soul [[Psalms 143:8]] to pardoning iniquity [[Micah 7:18]], illustrating the concept of something being "taken" or "lifted," whether a burden, an object, or a sin.
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (king): This word identifies the king as the source of the potential **gift**. The entire conflict revolves around allegiance to this royal figure, who is the central authority in the narrative [[2 Samuel 19:42]]. The LORD himself is also referred to as the **King** of Israel [[Isaiah 44:6]].
* `{{H7138}}` **qârôwb** (near of kin): This term establishes the motive that the men of Judah claim in place of receiving a gift. Their justification is not material gain but their relational proximity to the king. The word is also used to describe the LORD being **nigh** unto those who call upon him [[Psalms 145:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological and ethical weight of `{{H5379}}` is found entirely within its singular context.
* **Integrity of Motive:** The use of **gift** in this passage serves as a test of integrity. The men of Judah deny receiving a `{{H5379}}` to affirm that their actions are driven by relational loyalty (`{{H7138}}`), not by a desire for reward from the **king** `{{H4428}}`.
* **The Nature of Favor:** The word, meaning "something taken," frames the gift as a form of payment or royal favor that could compromise one's allegiance. The accusation hanging in the air is that Judah has "taken" something for their support, creating a political advantage.
* **Conflict and Kinship:** The argument over a potential **gift** `{{H5379}}` becomes the flashpoint in a conflict between the houses of Israel `{{H3478}}` and Judah `{{H3063}}`. This highlights how suspicions of material gain can strain and fracture even the closest of kinship bonds.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5379}}` **nissêʼth** is a highly specific term for **gift** whose meaning is entirely shaped by its single appearance. Used in [[2 Samuel 19:42]], it is central to a political and tribal dispute, where the denial of receiving such a gift is a declaration of pure motives. It stands in direct contrast to loyalty based on kinship `{{H7138}}` and underscores how the perception of favoritism from a king `{{H4428}}` can create deep division.
TRV