### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Nineuḯ**, represented by `{{G3535}}`, is of Hebrew origin and refers to **Nineve** (i.e. Nineveh), the capital of Assyria. It is a highly specific term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the biblical text. Its sole usage presents Nineveh as a historical benchmark for repentance in the face of divine warning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single scriptural appearance of `{{G3535}}` is in a statement by Jesus. He declares that "The men of **Nineve** shall rise up in the judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: for they repented at the preaching of Jonas" [[Luke 11:32]]. In this context, the people of Nineveh are used as a powerful contrast to the generation Jesus was addressing, highlighting their readiness to repent when confronted with a divine message.
### Related Words & Concepts
The narrative surrounding `{{G3535}}` is clarified by several key related words:
* `{{G435}}` **anḗr** (a man): This specifies that the **men** of Nineveh will rise in judgment [[Luke 11:32]]. The term denotes an individual male, as seen when describing David as "a **man** after mine own heart" [[Acts 13:22]].
* `{{G3340}}` **metanoéō** (repent): This is the crucial action taken by the people of Nineveh. The word means to think differently or reconsider, a central call in the New Testament as shown in the command to "**Repent**, and be baptized" [[Acts 2:38]].
* `{{G2782}}` **kḗrygma** (preaching): This refers to the proclamation of Jonas that prompted the repentance. The word signifies a proclamation, which God can use "by the foolishness of **preaching** to save them that believe" [[1 Corinthians 1:21]].
* `{{G2632}}` **katakrínō** (condemn): This is the action the men of Nineveh will take against the unrepentant generation in the judgment [[Luke 11:32]]. It means to sentence or judge against, as in the statement, "he that believeth not shall be **damned**" [[Mark 16:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3535}}` is concentrated in its role as an illustration of divine judgment and mercy.
* **The Power of Repentance:** The men of **Nineve** `{{G3535}}` stand as a testament to the effectiveness of repentance. They responded to the **preaching** `{{G2782}}` of **Jonas** `{{G2495}}` and **repented** `{{G3340}}`, setting an example for all future generations [[Luke 11:32]].
* **A Standard for Judgment:** Their collective action becomes a standard in the **judgment** `{{G2920}}`. Jesus states they will **rise up** `{{G450}}` and **condemn** `{{G2632}}` the **generation** `{{G1074}}` that heard an even greater message but refused to repent [[Luke 11:32]].
* **Accountability to Revelation:** The story implicitly teaches that accountability is tied to the level of revelation received. The generation that witnessed Jesus—"a greater than **Jonas** is here" [[Luke 11:32]]—is held to a higher standard than the people of **Nineve**.
### Summary
In summary, **Nineuḯ** `{{G3535}}` is far more than a simple geographical name. Though appearing just once, it serves as a crucial case study in Jesus' teaching. It encapsulates the profound themes of repentance in response to God's word, the reality of future judgment, and the principle of greater accountability. The story of **Nineve** is leveraged to deliver a timeless warning about the consequences of ignoring a divine call to **repent** `{{G3340}}`.
TRV