נוּן (nun)
nun
to propagate
H:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:V
Word Overview
The Hebrew verb nun carries the core meaning of propagation or increase. It describes a process where something continues to grow, spread, or multiply over time. In Scripture, this word appears only once, in Psalm 72:17.
In that verse, the psalmist prays for the king’s name to nun. The textual tradition offers two slight variations in how to read this action: either the name should increase in fame or it should be propagated and spread widely. Both interpretations focus on enduring legacy rather than immediate power.
This single occurrence highlights a theological emphasis on lasting influence. The prayer is not for transient success but for a reputation that continues to expand through generations, ensuring the king’s righteous rule leaves a permanent mark on history.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Hebrew word nun appears only once in the Old Testament, found in Psalm 72:17. Here it describes a name that continues to exist and spread as long as the sun shines. This is not about fleeting fame or temporary success. Instead, it points to an enduring legacy that outlasts the person who bears it.
For your faith life, this offers a quiet hope. You do not need to worry about how much you achieve in a single season. God cares more about the lasting impact of your obedience than immediate results. When you live faithfully, your influence ripples forward into generations you may never meet.
This promise reminds us that our work for God is never wasted. Even when we feel small or unseen, our faithful actions contribute to a story that continues long after we are gone. We can rest in the knowledge that God uses our steady faithfulness to build something permanent.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- may it increase1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- יִנּ֪וֹן1×
Key Verses
-
Psalms 72:17
His name endures forever. His name continues as long as the sun. Men shall be blessed by him. All nations will call him blessed.
The verb nun here describes the king's name continuing to exist and spread, emphasizing an enduring legacy rather than temporary power.