a primitive root; to flow forth (literally or figuratively); by implication, to liquify; drop, gather (together), melt, pour (forth, out).
Transliteration:nâthak
Pronunciation:naw-thak'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root `{{H5413}}` (נָתַךְ, *nâthak*) is a primitive verb whose core meaning revolves around the concept of "flowing forth." This foundational sense extends into a rich semantic range, encompassing both literal and figurative applications. Literally, it describes the movement of liquids, such as water or molten materials, indicating an unhindered, often forceful, gush or stream. This leads to primary meanings like "to pour out" or "to flow."
By implication, `{{H5413}}` also conveys the idea "to liquify" or "to melt," particularly in the context of solids transforming into liquid states, such as metals in a furnace. This aspect highlights a change of state brought about by heat or intense pressure, suggesting a process of dissolution or transformation.
The broader range of the word, as indicated by its various translations, includes "drop" (implying a small flow), "melt," and "pour (forth, out)." The nuance of "gather (together)" is less common but can be understood in the context of liquids flowing and subsequently collecting or coalescing in a single place. This suggests a movement towards a unified mass as a result of the outpouring.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb `{{H5413}}` appears in various contexts throughout the Hebrew Bible, consistently reflecting its core semantic range of flowing, pouring, and melting.
In the context of divine action, `{{H5413}}` is used to describe the outpouring of God's Spirit or blessings. For instance, in [[Isaiah 44:3]], the prophet declares, "For I will pour water upon him that is thirsty, and floods upon the dry ground: I will **pour** my spirit upon thy seed, and my blessing upon thine offspring." Here, *nâthak* emphasizes the abundant and life-giving nature of God's provision. Conversely, it can also describe the outpouring of divine judgment or wrath, as seen in [[Jeremiah 14:16]], where God declares, "for I will **pour** their wickedness upon them," indicating a full and inescapable recompense for sin. Similarly, [[Ezekiel 22:21]] speaks of God's wrath causing people to be "melted" like metal.
The concept of "melting" is prominently featured, often in the context of refining or judgment. In [[Ezekiel 22:22]], the imagery of silver being "melted" in a furnace is used to describe the purification or destruction of Israel in the crucible of divine judgment. This metaphorical use highlights the intensity of the process and the transformative power at work. Another example is in [[Ezekiel 24:11]], where the brass of a pot is commanded to "melt" to consume its filthiness, symbolizing the thorough cleansing of Jerusalem.
Human experience is also described using `{{H5413}}`. In [[Job 30:16]], Job laments, "And now my soul is **poured out** upon me; the days of affliction have taken hold upon me." This vivid expression conveys a sense of utter despair, weakness, and loss of composure, as if the very essence of his being is dissolving away under the weight of suffering.
In a more literal sense, the word can describe the breaking forth of water or a powerful, overwhelming force. [[2 Samuel 5:20]] uses it to describe the Lord "breaking forth" upon David's enemies, likening God's sudden and decisive victory to a powerful flood. In [[Proverbs 28:3]], a poor man oppressing the poor is compared to a "sweeping rain which **leaveth no food**" (KJV), implying a destructive downpour that devastates.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several Hebrew words share semantic overlap with `{{H5413}}` (נָתַךְ), particularly in the realm of pouring and melting, yet each carries its own distinct nuance.
* **`{{H5258}}` (נָסַךְ, *nâsak*)**: This verb primarily means "to pour out," often specifically referring to libations or drink offerings (e.g., [[Genesis 35:14]]). It also denotes the casting of molten metal to form idols or images (e.g., [[Isaiah 40:19]]), thus sharing the "melting" or "casting" aspect with `{{H5413}}`. While *nâthak* emphasizes the act of flowing forth, *nâsak* often implies a deliberate pouring for a specific purpose or the shaping of molten material.
* **`{{H7954}}` (שָׁפַךְ, *shaphak*)**: Meaning "to pour out" or "to shed," this verb is frequently used for shedding blood (e.g., [[Genesis 9:6]]), pouring out water (e.g., [[1 Samuel 7:6]]), or figuratively, pouring out one's heart (e.g., [[Lamentations 2:19]]) or wrath (e.g., [[Jeremiah 7:20]]). *Shaphak* often carries a connotation of emptying or expending something completely, whether literally or emotionally. While very close to *nâthak* in the general sense of "to pour," *nâthak* often emphasizes the *force* or *abundance* of the flow, or the *process* of melting.
* **`{{H4529}}` (מָסַס, *mâsas*)**: This verb specifically means "to melt," "to dissolve," or "to faint." It is used for the melting of wax (e.g., [[Psalm 68:2]]), the dissolving of the heart in fear (e.g., [[Deuteronomy 20:8]]), or the melting of mountains (e.g., [[Judges 5:5]]). While `{{H5413}}` includes "to melt" as one of its meanings, *mâsas* is exclusively focused on this transformative process of dissolving or losing solidity, often implying weakness or fear.
The concept of "gathering" as a secondary meaning of `{{H5413}}` can be seen in relation to words like `{{H622}}` (אָסַף, *asaph*), "to gather." However, for *nâthak*, "gather" is typically understood as the *result* of a flow or pouring, where the poured substance collects in one place, rather than a direct act of assembling disparate items.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H5413}}` (נָתַךְ) is profound, as it describes dynamic processes central to God's interaction with creation and humanity.
Firstly, the act of "pouring out" frequently symbolizes the **divine bestowal of blessing or judgment**. When God "pours out" His Spirit, it signifies a generous, abundant, and transformative infusion of divine presence and power, enabling prophecy, wisdom, and spiritual renewal. Conversely, the "pouring out" of God's wrath or judgment underscores His absolute sovereignty and justice, depicting an inescapable and thorough reckoning for sin. This imagery conveys the comprehensiveness and finality of divine action.
Secondly, the concept of "melting" speaks to **purification and transformation**. Just as metals are refined by fire, God's people are depicted as being "melted" in the crucible of affliction or judgment. This is not merely punitive but often redemptive, aiming to purge impurities, reveal true character, and refine faith. It highlights God's active involvement in shaping His people, even through painful processes, to conform them to His will.
Thirdly, the fluidity inherent in `{{H5413}}` points to the **dynamic and unrestrained nature of God's power**. Whether in judgment or blessing, God's actions are not static but flow forth with irresistible force. This conveys His active presence in history, His ability to break forth into human affairs, and His capacity to bring about radical change.
Finally, the human experience of the soul being "poured out" reveals a deep theological truth about **human vulnerability and reliance on God**. It expresses the profound distress and emotional dissolution that can accompany suffering, underscoring the human need for divine comfort and sustenance when one's inner strength seems to melt away.
### Summary
`{{H5413}}` (נָתַךְ, *nâthak*) is a powerful Hebrew root primarily meaning "to flow forth." Its semantic range extends to "pour out," "melt," and "drop," with a secondary nuance of "gathering" as a result of flowing. In biblical contexts, it vividly describes the abundant outpouring of God's Spirit and blessings, as well as the overwhelming force of His judgment and wrath. The "melting" aspect frequently symbolizes divine purification and transformation, often through trials or judgment, akin to refining metal in a furnace. The word also captures the profound human experience of emotional dissolution in times of distress. Theologically, `{{H5413}}` underscores God's dynamic power, His sovereignty in both blessing and judgment, and His transformative work in the lives of His people, emphasizing the irresistible and comprehensive nature of His actions.
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