Original Word: נָטַף
Part of Speech: Noun Masculine
Transliteration: nataph
Pronunciation: naw-TAHF
Phonetic Spelling: (naw-tawf')
Definition: To drop, drip, distill, prophesy
Meaning: a drop, an aromatic gum

Word Origin: A primitive root

Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: While there is no direct Greek equivalent for "nataph," the concept of prophesying is captured in the Greek verb "προφητεύω" (prophēteuō - Strong's G4395), meaning "to prophesy" or "to speak forth by divine inspiration."

Usage: The Hebrew verb "nataph" primarily means "to drop" or "to drip," often used in the context of liquids like water or honey. It is also metaphorically used to describe the act of prophesying, as words or messages from God are seen as "dripping" from the prophet's mouth. This dual usage highlights the concept of divine revelation being poured out or flowing from God through His chosen messengers.

Cultural and Historical Background: In ancient Israel, the imagery of dripping or flowing was commonly associated with abundance and blessing, such as rain nourishing the land or honey symbolizing prosperity. Prophets were seen as conduits of God's word, and their messages were considered vital for guiding the people. The metaphor of "dripping" prophecy underscores the idea of divine communication being a continuous and life-giving process.

I. [נָטָף] noun masculine drop; — נִטְפֵימָֿ֑יִם Job 36:27 ("" מָטָר, rain).

II. נָטָף noun [masculine] an odorific gum (gathered in drops), used in sacred incense Exodus 30:34 (P). Identification dubious; ᵐ5 στακτή, ᵑ9 stacte, i.e. (Hesych.) a kind of myrrh, so Kn, compare Ri^HWB; Rosenm Thes Ke and others storax; Rabb opobalsamum (compare Di^{on the passage} Now^{Archaeology ii. 64. 248}).

drop

From nataph; a drop; specifically, an aromatic gum (probably stacte) -- drop, stacte.

see HEBREW nataph

נִטְפֵי־ נָטָ֤ף ׀ נטף נטפי־ nā·ṭāp̄ naTaf nāṭāp̄ niṭ·p̄ê- nitfei niṭp̄ê-Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts