נָכָא (na.kah)
na.kah
to whip
H:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:V
Word Overview
The Hebrew verb nāqâh appears only once in the Old Testament, found in Job 30:8. In this unique occurrence, it is used in the passive voice to describe those who are struck or scourged. The word conveys a sense of physical violence, specifically the act of beating or smiting someone with force.
Its singular usage highlights the intensity of suffering described by Job. By choosing this term for the harsh treatment he endures, the text emphasizes the brutality faced by the righteous in their distress. The word serves as a stark reminder of the physical toll that extreme hardship can take on a person.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Hebrew word nāqâh appears only once in the Old Testament, in Job 30:8. It describes a violent act of whipping or scourging. This rare term captures the raw physical pain and humiliation experienced by those who were cast out. In Job’s lament, it highlights how extreme suffering can strip away dignity and safety.
When you face hardship that feels unjust or overwhelming, this word reminds you that your pain is seen. God does not ignore the brutality of life. Even in deep distress, your struggle matters to Him. You are not alone in your suffering, and He walks with you through it.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- they have been scourged1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- נִ֝כְּא֗וּ1×
Key Verses
-
Job 30:8
They are children of fools, yes, children of wicked men. They were flogged out of the land.
This is the only occurrence of nāqâh in Scripture, where it vividly portrays the physical violence inflicted on the marginalized.