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נַפְתּוּלִים (naph.tul)

naph.tul

wrestling

H5319 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 1 verses

H:N-M

Quick Reference

Language
Biblical Hebrew
Testament
Old Testament
Occurrences
1 verses
Root
—
Part of speech
H:N-M

Word Overview

The Hebrew noun naptulim translates to "wrestlings" or "struggles." It appears only once in the Old Testament, in Genesis 30:8, where Rachel names her son Naphtali after giving birth. The name reflects the intense rivalry and physical contest between Rachel and her sister Leah for Jacob’s affection.

This rare word captures a sense of vigorous contention rather than a simple dispute. By naming her child with this term, Rachel memorializes the fierce competition that characterized her years in the household. It serves as a linguistic record of the personal conflict that defined her family dynamics during that period.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The word naptulim describes a fierce, physical struggle rather than a simple disagreement. In Genesis 30:8, Rachel uses this term to describe her intense rivalry with Leah for Jacob’s attention. It captures the raw emotion and exhaustion of competing for love and status within a fractured family.

When we face conflicts in our own lives, this word reminds us that our struggles are seen. God does not ignore the pain of competition or the feeling of being left behind. Even in messy human relationships, His presence remains steady. We can bring our honest feelings to Him without hiding the weight of our battles.

Ultimately, this term points to a deeper truth: God hears the cries of those who feel they are fighting for their place. He sees the effort behind our prayers and the tears behind our silence. There is comfort in knowing that our struggles are not meaningless, but part of a story where God eventually brings justice and peace.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • wrestling<s> of1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • נַפְתּוּלֵ֨י1×

Key Verses

  • Genesis 30:8
    Rachel said, “I have wrestled with my sister with mighty wrestlings, and have prevailed.” She named him Naphtali.

    This verse uniquely uses the term to describe Rachel's physical and emotional contest with Leah, establishing the origin of the name Naphtali.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Hebrew word naptulim mean?

Naptulim translates to 'wrestlings' or 'struggles.' It refers to a vigorous, physical contention rather than a verbal argument. The term appears only once in the Old Testament, highlighting its specific context of intense personal rivalry.

Where does this word appear in the Bible?

It is found exclusively in Genesis 30:8. Rachel uses it to describe her struggle with her sister Leah for Jacob’s affection. She names her son Naphtali based on this event, making it a key part of the family narrative.

How is naptulim different from other words for conflict?

Unlike general terms for dispute or anger, naptulim implies a physical and exhausting contest. It suggests a struggle where both parties are exerting maximum effort to prevail. This distinguishes it from simpler disagreements or minor conflicts.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)

Genesis 1 verse
Genesis 30:8

Rachel said, “I have wrestled with my sister with mighty wrestlings, and have prevailed.” She named him Naphtali.