נָבַח (na.vach)
na.vach
to bark
H:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:V
Word Overview
The Hebrew verb nābach means simply to bark, specifically describing the sound made by dogs. It appears only once in the entire Old Testament, found in Isaiah 56:10. In this context, the word is used metaphorically to criticize spiritual leaders who fail in their duties. The prophet compares these negligent watchmen to dogs that cannot stay silent, constantly barking without providing any real protection or guidance for the people.
This single occurrence gives the word a sharp, critical edge. Rather than describing a natural animal sound, nābach highlights the useless noise of those who are supposed to be vigilant. The image suggests that their constant vocalizing is empty and disruptive, lacking the substance of true oversight. This rare usage preserves the raw, auditory quality of the term while applying it to a serious social and spiritual failure.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Hebrew word nābach describes the sharp sound of a dog barking. In Isaiah 56:10, it appears only once in the Old Testament. The prophet uses this image to criticize spiritual leaders who should be watching over people but fail to do so. Instead of offering true guidance or protection, these leaders are like dogs that make noise without purpose.
This metaphor reminds us that vocal activity does not equal faithful service. It is easy to sound busy or loud while missing the real work of care and vigilance. True leadership requires more than just making a presence known; it demands attentive action and genuine concern for those in trust.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- to/ bark1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- לִ/נְבֹּ֑חַ1×
Key Verses
-
Isaiah 56:10
His watchmen are blind. They are all without knowledge. They are all mute dogs. They can’t bark— dreaming, lying down, loving to slumber.
The word highlights the empty noise of leaders who claim vigilance but offer no real protection or guidance.