נוּן (nun)
nun
Nun
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 30 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Nun identifies the father of Joshua, a figure who appears frequently in the books of Exodus, Numbers, and Joshua. He is introduced as an Ephraimite and a trusted assistant to Moses before his son assumes leadership of Israel. The sources note that the Septuagint renders this name as Naue, though some ancient manuscripts show variations like Nabe or Nabi, likely due to scribal confusion with words for prophet.
Etymologically, the name is linked to the Hebrew word for fish, which suggests meanings such as "fish" or "posterity." This connection highlights themes of prolificacy and continuity. The name appears in genealogies and historical narratives, marking Joshua’s lineage as he transitions from a military subordinate to the leader who guides the people into the promised land.
One notable occurrence is in Numbers 13:8, where Nun is listed among the spies sent to explore Canaan. His son Joshua is specifically named, distinguishing him from the other scouts. This detail underscores the importance of family lineage in biblical records and sets the stage for Joshua’s eventual role as Moses’ successor.
The name also appears in 1 Chronicles 7:27, where it is spelled Non, showing slight variation in transmission. Despite these minor differences, the consistent reference to Nun across texts reinforces his identity as a pivotal ancestor in Israel’s history. His presence in the narrative serves as a bridge between the wilderness generation and the conquest era.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Nun appears in Scripture primarily as the father of Joshua, a figure whose life illustrates the quiet strength found in faithful lineage. While the text does not record many direct words from Nun himself, his identity as an Ephraimite and the father of a man who would lead Israel into the Promised Land carries significant weight. The name itself connects to themes of fruitfulness and continuity, reminding us that God often works through generations to fulfill His promises.
For believers today, this connection between father and son highlights the enduring nature of faith passed down through families. Joshua’s readiness to serve Moses and eventually lead the people was shaped by his background and training. We see in his journey that preparation matters, and that God uses those who remain steadfast in their service. The legacy of Nun is preserved not just in genealogies, but in the leadership that emerged from his household.
When we consider our own spiritual heritage, we are encouraged by the way God honors faithful roots. Whether through direct family lines or mentors in the church, the influence of previous generations shapes our current walk. This word points to the importance of staying connected to the community of faith, trusting that God is building something lasting through us and those who follow.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 30 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Nun30×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- נ֗וּן5×
- נֽוּן\׃4×
- נ֖וּן4×
- נ֔וּן4×
- נ֑וּן4×
- נוּן֙3×
- נֽוּן\׃\ \ס2×
- נ֥וּן1×
- נ֥וֹן1×
- נ֠וּן1×
- נ֟וּן1×
Key Verses
-
Numbers 13:16
These are the names of the men who Moses sent to spy out the land. Moses called Hoshea the son of Nun Joshua.
This verse marks the pivotal moment Moses renames Hoshea to Joshua, signifying the transfer of divine authority and purpose that Nun’s son would carry forward.
-
Deuteronomy 34:9
Joshua the son of Nun was full of the spirit of wisdom, for Moses had laid his hands on him. The children of Israel listened to him, and did as Yahweh commanded Moses.
Here the text explicitly links Joshua’s wisdom to the laying on of hands by Moses, showing how Nun’s son was equipped for leadership through spiritual succession.
-
Joshua 1:1
Now after the death of Moses the servant of Yahweh, Yahweh spoke to Joshua the son of Nun, Moses’ servant, saying,
This opening verse establishes Joshua as Moses’ successor, grounding his new authority in the lineage and training provided under Nun’s fatherhood.