נָבַב (na.vav)
na.vav
be hollow
H:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 4 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:V
Word Overview
The Hebrew verb nābab describes the process of becoming hollow or being made empty. With only four occurrences in the Old Testament, it is a rare word that paints a vivid picture of physical emptiness. In Exodus 27:8 and 38:7, it refers to the bronze altar being constructed with a hollow interior, likely to allow for ventilation or weight reduction while maintaining structural integrity.
The word also appears in poetic contexts to describe natural erosion. Jeremiah 17:13 uses it metaphorically to contrast those who trust in God with those who "turn aside" and become like dry, empty earth. Similarly, Job 20:15 employs the imagery of a womb that fails to conceive, leaving a hollow space where life should have been.
This term emphasizes the state of being void or lacking substance. It moves beyond simple shape to suggest an internal absence, whether in crafted objects like the altar or in the spiritual condition of those who abandon their foundation. The physical act of hollowing out serves as a powerful metaphor for spiritual emptiness and the consequences of turning away from divine support.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word nabab describes something becoming hollow, empty, or void of substance. In the Old Testament, it appears in rare instances to describe physical structures like the bronze altar, which was built with a hollow interior for practical reasons. This imagery extends beyond architecture into the human experience, where emptiness can signify loss, disappointment, or a lack of spiritual foundation.
When we encounter feelings of inner void—whether from unfulfilled hopes or moments of doubt—we are reminded that true fullness comes from trusting in God rather than relying on our own strength. Jeremiah 17:13 contrasts those who turn away with those who find life in the Lord, suggesting that our deepest needs are met only when we remain connected to Him.
This word invites us to examine where we might be seeking satisfaction in empty things and to redirect our hearts toward the One who fills every void. It is a gentle call to rest in God’s provision, knowing that He alone sustains us with lasting peace and purpose.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 4 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- hollow of2×
- hollow2×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- נְב֥וּב2×
- נָבֽוּב\׃1×
- נָ֭בוּב1×
Key Verses
-
Exodus 27:8
You shall make it hollow with planks. They shall make it as it has been shown you on the mountain.
This verse uses nabab to describe the physical construction of the altar, showing how God provided for practical needs even in sacred spaces.
-
Job 11:12
An empty-headed man becomes wise when a man is born as a wild donkey’s colt.
Here the word highlights the futility of human wisdom apart from God, comparing empty-headedness to the uselessness of a wild donkey’s colt.
-
Jeremiah 52:21
As for the pillars, the height of the one pillar was eighteen cubits; and a line of twelve cubits encircled it; and its thickness was four fingers. It was hollow.
The hollow pillars remind us that even grand structures can be empty if they lack spiritual substance or connection to God.