The Hebrew verb nuwq means to nurse, to suckle, or to nourish at the breast. It describes the intimate act of a mother feeding her infant and, by extension, the nurturing care that sustains new life. The word carries deep connotations of maternal tenderness and life-giving provision.
In prophetic literature, the nursing metaphor is applied to the eschatological restoration of Israel, where the nations will bring their wealth to nourish and sustain God's people. Isaiah uses the image of nursing at the breast of kings to describe the reversal of Israel's fortunes — those who once oppressed will become caretakers. God Himself is portrayed as the ultimate nurturer of His people.