### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Neemán**, represented by `{{G3497}}`, is of Hebrew origin and refers to **Naaman**, a Syrian. It appears only **1 time** in the Bible, in **1 unique verse**, making its significance entirely dependent on its specific context. Its singular usage points to a particular historical figure whose story is invoked to make a powerful theological point.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of **Neemán** `{{G3497}}` is in [[Luke 4:27]]. In this passage, Jesus is speaking in the synagogue and highlights that while **many** `{{G4183}}` **lepers** `{{G3015}}` **were** `{{G2258}}` in **Israel** `{{G2474}}` during the time of the **prophet** `{{G4396}}` Eliseus, **none** `{{G3762}}` of them was cleansed. The exception was **Naaman** the **Syrian** `{{G4948}}`. This use of **Naaman**'s story serves as a stark example of God's grace extending beyond the boundaries of Israel, a theme central to the passage.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context illuminate the meaning of this reference:
* `{{G4948}}` **Sýros** (Syrian): This word identifies **Naaman**'s nationality, emphasizing that he was an outsider to the people of **Israel**.
* `{{G3015}}` **leprós** (leper): This describes the condition from which **Naaman** was healed. It defines the physical state that required a miraculous intervention.
* `{{G2511}}` **katharízō** (to cleanse): This is the verb describing the action performed for **Naaman**. The word carries both literal and figurative meaning, used elsewhere to describe being cleansed from sin [[1 John 1:9]].
* `{{G2474}}` **Israḗl** (Israel): This term provides the contrast in the narrative. The cleansing of **Naaman**, a foreigner, is set against the fact that no **lepers** within **Israel** received the same healing at that time [[Luke 4:27]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3497}}` comes entirely from its unique narrative placement.
* **Sovereign Grace:** The story of **Naaman** is used to demonstrate that God's mercy is sovereignly bestowed. Out of **many** `{{G4183}}` who were afflicted, only the Syrian was **cleansed** `{{G2511}}` in this instance [[Luke 4:27]].
* **A Gentile Recipient of Mercy:** **Naaman** stands as a key Old Testament example of a non-Israelite receiving God's miraculous grace. This underscores the point that God's saving power is not limited by ethnicity or national affiliation.
* **Foreshadowing of Cleansing:** The account of **Naaman** the **Syrian** `{{G4948}}` being cleansed serves as a powerful illustration of divine power over disease, a theme that points toward the greater spiritual cleansing from sin offered through Christ [[Hebrews 9:14]].
### Summary
In summary, while **Neemán** `{{G3497}}` has only a single occurrence, its impact is significant. The name functions as a specific historical anchor in Jesus's teaching to illustrate a profound truth: God's redemptive plan and mercy have always included those outside the nation of **Israel**. The story of **Naaman** is invoked not just as a historical event, but as a paradigm of sovereign grace that transcends human boundaries.
TRV