### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nâthash**, represented by `{{H5428}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to tear away, destroy, or pluck up by the roots**. It appears **21 times** across **19 unique verses**. The word conveys a sense of forceful and complete removal, often used to describe the uprooting of nations, kingdoms, or people from their land as an act of divine judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5428}}` is used to illustrate God's absolute authority over nations. In Jeremiah's commission, God sets him over kingdoms "to **root out**" and to destroy, but also to build and to plant [[Jeremiah 1:10]]. The word signifies a severe judgment, as when God warns He will "**root up** Israel out of this good land" due to their disobedience [[1 Kings 14:15]]. This action is not limited to Israel; God also promises to "**pluck out**" the evil neighbors who touch Israel's inheritance [[Jeremiah 12:14]]. The term can also describe the overthrow of a kingdom, which is "**plucked up**" to be given to others [[Daniel 11:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are used in parallel or contrast to `{{H5428}}`, clarifying its meaning:
* `{{H5193}}` **nâṭaʻ** (to plant): This word is the direct antonym of `nâthash`. Scripture frequently pairs them to contrast God's work of establishing his people with his work of uprooting them in judgment. For example, God promises to "**plant** them, and not **pluck them up**" as a sign of favor [[Jeremiah 24:6]].
* `{{H2040}}` **hâraç** (to pull down or in pieces, break, destroy): This term is often used alongside `nâthash` to intensify the theme of destruction. In Jeremiah's commission, the mandate is to root out, pull down, destroy, and "**throw down**" [[Jeremiah 1:10]].
* `{{H1129}}` **bânâh** (to build): As another antonym, `bânâh` represents creation and establishment, while `nâthash` represents removal. God's sovereign power is shown in His ability both to "**build**" and to "**pluck up**" what He has planted [[Jeremiah 45:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5428}}` is significant, highlighting key aspects of God's character and His dealings with humanity.
* **Divine Judgment:** The act of "plucking up" is consistently portrayed as a righteous judgment from God in response to sin and disobedience. The LORD "**rooted** them out of their land in anger, and in wrath, and in great indignation" [[Deuteronomy 29:28]].
* **Sovereignty over Nations:** The word underscores God's ultimate control over the destiny of kingdoms. His authority allows him to "**utterly** pluck up and destroy" a disobedient nation [[Jeremiah 12:17]], but also to have compassion and return those He has plucked out [[Jeremiah 12:15]].
* **Promise of Permanent Restoration:** The negation of `{{H5428}}` becomes a powerful promise of future hope and security for God's people. In the time of restoration, God promises that His people "shall no more be **pulled up** out of their land" [[Amos 9:15]], and the holy city "shall not be **plucked up**, nor thrown down any more for ever" [[Jeremiah 31:40]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5428}}` **nâthash** is a dynamic verb that depicts a forceful and final removal, akin to being torn out by the roots. It serves as a primary term for describing divine judgment against sin, demonstrating God's sovereignty to uproot peoples and kingdoms. Its frequent contrast with words like "plant" and "build" establishes a clear biblical theme of covenant consequence: blessing leads to establishment, while disobedience leads to being plucked up. Ultimately, the promise that this action will cease signifies God's final, merciful restoration of His people.
TRV