☀️
← Back to Lexicon
H5117 · Hebrew · Old Testament
נוּחַ
Nuach
Verb
To Rest, Settle, Remain

Definition

The Hebrew verb nuach means to rest, settle, be still, or come to a resting place. Occurring about 65 times in the OT, it is the root of the name Noah (H5146 — 'rest') and the noun menuha (rest, repose). It describes the settling of the Spirit, the ark landing, and the promised Sabbath rest.

Usage & Theological Significance

Nuach is the verb behind God's promise of rest to His people. The Spirit of the LORD rests (nuach) on the Messiah (Isaiah 11:2). God promised Israel rest in the land. Hebrews 4 argues that this promised rest remains for God's people — ultimately fulfilled in Christ, who gives rest to the weary (Matthew 11:28–29). The creation narrative's seventh day rest (Genesis 2:2) uses a different word, but nuach fills out the theology of divine peace and settled presence.

Key Bible Verses

Isaiah 11:2 The Spirit of the LORD will rest on him — the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding.
Genesis 8:4 and on the seventeenth day of the seventh month the ark came to rest on the mountains of Ararat.
Deuteronomy 12:10 But you will cross the Jordan and settle in the land the LORD your God is giving you as an inheritance, and he will give you rest from all your enemies around you.
Numbers 10:36 Whenever it came to rest, he said, 'Return, LORD, to the countless thousands of Israel.'
Ruth 3:18 Then Naomi said, 'Wait, my daughter, until you find out what happens. For the man will not rest until the matter is settled today.'

Related Words

External Resources

🌙
☀️