### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nâshath**, represented by `{{H5405}}`, is a primitive root meaning to **fail** or **dry up**. It appears just **3 times** in **3 unique verses**, often depicting a state of elimination or cessation, whether of resources, strength, or life.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H5405}}` describes a critical cessation or failure. It is used to illustrate the consequences of judgment or severe hardship. In Isaiah, it depicts the physical drying up of waters from the sea [[Isaiah 19:5]] and the failure of the human tongue from extreme thirst when the poor and needy seek water [[Isaiah 41:17]]. In Jeremiah, the word conveys a loss of morale and power, where the might of Babylon's warriors **failed**, causing them to become as women [[Jeremiah 51:30]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concepts of failure, desolation, and weakness:
* `{{H3001}}` **yâbêsh** (to dry up): This word is used in parallel with `{{H5405}}` to describe the drying up of a river, emphasizing the complete desiccation of a water source [[Isaiah 19:5]].
* `{{H2717}}` **chârab** (to parch... desolate, destroy): Also appearing alongside `{{H5405}}`, this term signifies desolation through drought and is used to describe how a river shall be wasted [[Isaiah 19:5]].
* `{{H1369}}` **gᵉbûwrâh** (might, power, strength): This word represents the force and valor that can be subject to failure. In Jeremiah, it is the "might" of the mighty men of Babylon that **failed** `{{H5405}}`, leading to their defeat [[Jeremiah 51:30]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5405}}` is significant, highlighting themes of judgment and dependence.
* **Consequence of Judgment:** The failure described by `{{H5405}}` can be a direct result of divine judgment. In Jeremiah, the loss of Babylon's might is a fulfillment of prophecy against the nation's mighty men [[Jeremiah 51:30]].
* **Human Helplessness:** The word underscores ultimate human vulnerability. The tongue that **faileth** for thirst illustrates a point of desperation where only divine intervention can save, as God promises to hear the poor and needy and not forsake them [[Isaiah 41:17]].
* **Elimination of Earthly Resources:** `{{H5405}}` is used to show that natural resources are not absolute. It describes the catastrophic event of waters failing from the sea and a river being wasted and dried up [[Isaiah 19:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5405}}` **nâshath** encapsulates a state of complete failure and elimination. Though used sparingly, it powerfully conveys the drying up of essential resources like water, the collapse of human strength in the face of divine will, and the desperate state of those in need. It serves as a stark reminder of both divine judgment and the absolute dependence of creation upon God for sustenance and strength.
TRV