נְקֻדָּה (ne.qud.dah)
ne.qud.dah
bead
H:N-FQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-F
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun nequddah refers to a small, distinct unit, translated as either a "point" or a "drop." Its meaning hinges on the idea of something precise and measurable, whether it is a tiny speck of material or a single drop of liquid. This word appears only once in the entire Old Testament, located in Song of Solomon 1:11.
In that specific verse, the text describes the king bringing gifts of silver adorned with nequddot, or "points" or "drops." The sources indicate this likely refers to small, decorative beads or granules of silver attached to a necklace. The imagery suggests intricate craftsmanship, where individual elements are carefully arranged to create beauty.
Because the word is so rare, it does not carry a wide range of theological usage elsewhere in Scripture. Instead, its value lies in this single poetic instance, highlighting the attention to detail and the preciousness of the gifts offered in the Song. It serves as a concrete example of how small, distinct units can contribute to an overall sense of splendor.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word nequddah appears just once in Scripture, describing the small silver beads or drops that decorate the earrings promised to the beloved in Song of Solomon. This single detail highlights how much care goes into creating something beautiful. It is not enough for a gift to be valuable; it must also be crafted with precision and attention to every tiny element.
In your own life, this reminds us that God notices the small things. Just as the silver beads were carefully placed to enhance the necklace, your daily acts of kindness, quiet prayers, and faithful moments are seen and valued. You do not need to perform grand gestures to matter. The beauty of your character is built from these small, distinct choices made each day.
When you feel overlooked, remember that the Creator pays attention to the smallest details. He sees the 'beads' of your life—the quiet struggles and the gentle steps. There is comfort in knowing that nothing you do for love is too small to be part of a greater design.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- <the> beads of1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- נְקֻדּ֥וֹת1×
Key Verses
-
Song of Solomon 1:11
We will make you earrings of gold, with studs of silver.
This verse uses the word to describe the silver studs or beads on earrings, showing how small decorative elements add beauty and value to a gift.