### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nâshâh**, represented by `{{H5382}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to forget**. It appears 6 times across 6 unique verses in the Bible. Its meaning extends beyond simple memory loss, figuratively meaning to neglect, and causatively to remit, remove, deprive, or exact.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5382}}` is used to convey a range of powerful actions, often initiated by God. In a positive sense, God causes Joseph to **forget** his past suffering, leading him to name his firstborn Manasseh [[Genesis 41:51]]. In a punitive context, God warns that he will utterly **forget** and forsake his people as a form of judgment [[Jeremiah 23:39]]. The word also carries the meaning of deprivation, as when God **deprived** the ostrich of wisdom [[Job 39:17]], and of remission, where God **exacteth** less punishment than is deserved [[Job 11:6]]. It can also describe a state of human loss, as when the soul in lament **forgat** prosperity [[Lamentations 3:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the active and consequential nature of forgetting:
* `{{H2142}}` **zâkar** (to remember): As the direct opposite of `nâshâh`, this word means to mark or mention. It is used in God's promise to Israel, "thou shalt not be **forgotten** of me" [[Isaiah 44:21]], highlighting the covenantal importance of being remembered by God.
* `{{H2186}}` **zânach** (to push aside, reject): This term is used in parallel with `nâshâh`, describing how a soul is **removed** from peace before it forgets prosperity, linking the act of forgetting to a prior state of rejection [[Lamentations 3:17]].
* `{{H5203}}` **nâṭash** (to forsake, leave): This word is paired with `nâshâh` to describe the result of being forgotten by God. God's warning to **forget** his people is immediately followed by his declaration that he will **forsake** them [[Jeremiah 23:39]].
* `{{H5377}}` **nâshâʼ** (to lead astray, deceive): This word is used as an intensifier in Jeremiah, where God declares he will **utterly** forget his people, underscoring the severity of the action [[Jeremiah 23:39]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5382}}` is significant, demonstrating God's sovereign power over memory and circumstance.
* **Forgetting as Divine Grace:** The word can signify a merciful act from God. He can make someone **forget** their toil and hardship as a form of relief and blessing [[Genesis 41:51]]. It is also used when God **exacteth** less punishment than deserved, a form of gracious remission [[Job 11:6]].
* **Forgetting as Divine Judgment:** Conversely, being forgotten by God is a severe punishment. It is an active choice by God to remove his presence and favor, paired with the consequence of being forsaken [[Jeremiah 23:39]].
* **A Promise of Divine Faithfulness:** God’s promise not to **forget** his people is a cornerstone of his covenant relationship, contrasting with the fear of abandonment and serving as a great comfort [[Isaiah 44:21]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5382}}` is a dynamic term that portrays forgetting not as a passive lapse but as a decisive action with profound consequences. It is used to describe God’s power to grant relief from suffering, enact judgment upon a nation, and withhold certain qualities. From the personal deliverance of Joseph to the national threat against Judah, **nâshâh** reveals that in scripture, being remembered or forgotten by God is a matter of the utmost importance.
TRV