from נָשַׁם; a puff, i.e. wind, angry or vital breath, divine inspiration, intellect. or (concretely) an animal; blast, (that) breath(-eth), inspiration, soul, spirit.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nᵉshâmâh**, represented by `{{H5397}}`, refers to breath, both vital and divine. It appears 24 times in 24 unique verses. The term encompasses a range of meanings from the physical breath that sustains an animal to the divine inspiration that grants intellect, and even the powerful blast of God's judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H5397}}` is central to the concept of life originating from God. In the creation of humanity, the LORD God "breathed into his nostrils the **breath** of life; and man became a living soul" [[Genesis 2:7]]. This act establishes God as the direct source of human vitality. This same power is described as the "inspiration of the Almighty" that gives understanding to man [[Job 32:8]]. The word is also used to signify the very presence of life, where its absence means death [[1 Kings 17:17]]. In a display of divine power, `{{H5397}}` is depicted as a "blast" from God's nostrils that can expose the foundations of the world [[2 Samuel 22:16]] or serve as an instrument of judgment [[Job 4:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller understanding of the concept of life and breath:
* `{{H7307}}` **rûwach** (spirit): Often used alongside **nᵉshâmâh**, this word refers to spirit, wind, or breath. While **nᵉshâmâh** can specify the breath of life itself, **rûwach** often denotes the animating spirit. God gives both **breath** `{{H5397}}` and **spirit** `{{H7307}}` to people on the earth [[Isaiah 42:5]].
* `{{H5315}}` **nephesh** (soul): This term signifies a "breathing creature" or soul, representing the total living being. The connection is made explicit in the creation account, where God's impartation of **breath** `{{H5397}}` results in man becoming a living **soul** `{{H5315}}` [[Genesis 2:7]].
* `{{H2416}}` **chay** (life): Meaning alive or living, this word describes the state that **nᵉshâmâh** produces. It is the "**life**" in the phrase "breath of **life**" that originates from God [[Genesis 2:7]].
* `{{H5301}}` **nâphach** (breathe): This is the verb describing the act of breathing or puffing. It is used for God's action of giving the breath of life to man in [[Genesis 2:7]], where He **breathed** into his nostrils.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H5397}}` is profound, defining the relationship between Creator and creation.
* **Source of Life:** The word establishes that life and consciousness are not inherent properties but are a direct gift from God. The LORD "giveth **breath** unto the people" [[Isaiah 42:5]], and it is the "**breath** of the Almighty" that gives life [[Job 33:4]]. Man's dependence is highlighted in the warning to "Cease ye from man, whose **breath** is in his nostrils" [[Isaiah 2:22]].
* **Divine Inspiration and Intellect:** Beyond mere biological function, **nᵉshâmâh** is linked to the capacity for understanding. Job states that "the **inspiration** of the Almighty giveth them understanding" [[Job 32:8]], positioning God as the source of human intellect.
* **The Power of God's Expression:** The term is used to describe the immense power of God's judgment. He can perish his enemies with "the **blast** of God" [[Job 4:9]]. His **breath** is a force that can kindle judgment like a stream of brimstone [[Isaiah 30:33]] or give frost [[Job 37:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5397}}` **nᵉshâmâh** is a foundational word for understanding biblical anthropology and theology. It moves beyond the simple mechanical act of breathing to represent the divine spark of life, intellect, and soul imparted by God to his creation. Whether as the gentle breath of life in Adam, the inspiration that gives wisdom, or the terrifying blast of divine judgment, **nᵉshâmâh** consistently points to the power and authority of God as the ultimate source and sustainer of all that breathes.
TRV