### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nâthîyb**, represented by `{{H5410}}`, refers to a (beaten) track or path. It appears 26 times in 26 unique verses in the Bible. While it can denote a physical trail, it is more often used metaphorically to describe a course of life, a moral direction, or a way of acting. Its root suggests a path formed by tramping or frequent use.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H5410}}` contrasts the path of righteousness with the path of wickedness. Wisdom's ways are described as "ways of pleasantness, and all her **paths** are peace" [[Proverbs 3:17]]. Conversely, the wicked walk in crooked **paths** where there is no peace [[Isaiah 59:8]]. The term is also used to illustrate God's divine guidance and power. The LORD is depicted as making a **path** through the mighty waters [[Isaiah 43:16]] and leading the blind in **paths** they have not known [[Isaiah 42:16]]. In times of distress, a person's **path** can be filled with snares [[Psalms 142:3]] or made crooked by God as a form of judgment [[Lamentations 3:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of a path or way:
* `{{H1870}}` **derek** (a road): Often used in parallel with **nâthîyb**, this word signifies a road, way, or course of life. God calls His people to stand in the ways (derek) and ask for the old **paths** (nâthîyb) [[Jeremiah 6:16]].
* `{{H734}}` **ʼôrach** (a well-trodden road): Similar to **nâthîyb**, this term for a path is used figuratively for a manner of life. Wisdom is said to lead in the way of righteousness, in the midst of the **paths** of judgment [[Proverbs 8:20]].
* `{{H1869}}` **dârak** (to tread, to walk): This primitive root describes the action of traveling along a path. It is used when God promises to **lead** the blind in paths they have not known [[Isaiah 42:16]].
* `{{H5549}}` **sâlal** (to mound up): This word describes the act of building up a road or highway. It is used in contrast to the **paths** of the disobedient, which are described as a way "not cast up" [[Jeremiah 18:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H5410}}` is centered on the journey of life and moral choice.
* **The Way of Wisdom and Righteousness:** Scripture presents a clear choice between different paths. God's people are instructed to seek the "old **paths**," the good way, to find rest for their souls [[Jeremiah 6:16]]. The **path** of God's commandments is a source of delight [[Psalms 119:35]].
* **Divine Guidance:** The concept of a path underscores humanity's need for a guide. God's word is presented as "a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my **path**" [[Psalms 119:105]], illuminating the correct course in a dark world.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** God's power is demonstrated in His ability to create and alter paths. He forges a **path** through the sea [[Isaiah 43:16]] but can also set darkness in the paths of the afflicted [[Job 19:8]]. He is also the one who promises to be "The restorer of **paths** to dwell in" [[Isaiah 58:12]].
### Summary
In summary, **nâthîyb** `{{H5410}}` is a rich biblical term that elevates the simple idea of a track to a profound metaphor for one's life journey. It consistently frames life as a series of choices between the path of righteousness, peace, and divine guidance, and the crooked, dangerous paths of wickedness and rebellion. The word illustrates how every life follows a certain track, leading either toward God and life or away from Him toward destruction.
TRV