### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nᵉshîyâh**, represented by `{{H5388}}`, means **forgetfulness** or **oblivion**. As a term derived from the root for forgetting, its significance is profound despite its rarity. It appears only **1 time** in the entire Bible, making its single usage particularly impactful.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H5388}}` is in [[Psalms 88:12]], where the psalmist asks a desperate, rhetorical question from a place of deep suffering: "Shall thy wonders be known in the dark? and thy righteousness in the land of **forgetfulness**?" In this context, the "land of **forgetfulness**" is a metaphorical place, equated with darkness and a state of being where God's miraculous works and righteous character seem absent or unknowable. It describes a condition of ultimate separation and despair.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of `{{H5388}}` is understood through its relationship with other words in its only context:
* `{{H6382}}` **peleʼ** (a miracle; marvellous thing, wonder): These are God's wondrous acts, which the psalmist fears cannot be perceived in the land of forgetfulness [[Psalms 88:12]]. God's actions are elsewhere described as a reason for praise [[Isaiah 25:1]].
* `{{H3045}}` **yâdaʻ** (to know): This word signifies recognition and awareness. The central question of the verse is whether God's wonders can be "known" in a state of oblivion, highlighting the contrast between divine revelation and a state of being forgotten [[Psalms 88:12]].
* `{{H2822}}` **chôshek** (darkness): Used in parallel with "forgetfulness," this term describes not just a physical absence of light but also a figurative state of misery, death, and ignorance [[Psalms 88:12]]. It is the opposite of God's light [[Micah 7:8]].
* `{{H6666}}` **tsᵉdâqâh** (righteousness): This refers to God's justice and moral virtue. The psalmist questions if this essential attribute of God has any meaning in a place defined by oblivion [[Psalms 88:12]].
* `{{H776}}` **ʼerets** (a land): This word gives the abstract concept of forgetfulness a physical metaphor, a "land" or realm. This turns a feeling into a powerful image of a location devoid of God's presence [[Psalms 88:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5388}}` is concentrated in its singular, potent use.
* **A State of Utter Separation:** The "land of forgetfulness" symbolizes a state of profound spiritual death or despair, where an individual feels completely cut off from the memory and presence of God. It is paired with **darkness** `{{H2822}}` to convey a sense of total isolation [[Psalms 88:12]].
* **The Absence of Divine Attributes:** This state is defined by what it lacks: God's **wonders** `{{H6382}}` and his **righteousness** `{{H6666}}` are not **known** `{{H3045}}` there. It represents the antithesis of a relationship with God, where He is acknowledged and praised [[Proverbs 3:6]].
* **A Cry of Despair:** The use of `{{H5388}}` in a question to God frames it as one of the deepest fears of the faithful: to be so afflicted as to be forgotten by God and unable to remember Him, effectively ceasing to exist in a relational sense.
### Summary
In summary, **nᵉshîyâh** `{{H5388}}` is a uniquely powerful word in the Hebrew Bible. Though used only once, it vividly captures the concept of a metaphorical "land of forgetfulness"—a state of absolute darkness and separation from God. Its placement within [[Psalms 88:12]] illustrates the ultimate despair of feeling as though God's power, wonders, and righteousness are no longer accessible or knowable.
TRV