### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Νινευΐτης (Nineuḯtēs)**, represented by `{{G3536}}`, is defined as "a Ninevite, i.e. inhabitant of Nineveh." Derived from Νινευΐ, this term appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. It specifically identifies the people of the city of Nineveh and is used to draw a significant contrast in the New Testament.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, the **Ninevites** `{{G3536}}` are presented as a historical example of repentance. Jesus refers to them to highlight the unbelief of his own generation. The **men** `{{G435}}` of Nineveh are said to **rise** `{{G450}}` in **judgment** `{{G2920}}` and **condemn** `{{G2632}}` the generation that heard Jesus, because the Ninevites **repented** `{{G3340}}` at the **preaching** `{{G2782}}` of **Jonas** `{{G2495}}` [[Matthew 12:41]]. Furthermore, **Jonas** `{{G2495}}` himself is presented as a **sign** `{{G4592}}` to the **Ninevites** `{{G3536}}`, setting a precedent for how the Son of **man** `{{G444}}` would be a sign to his contemporaries [[Luke 11:30]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the role of the Ninevites:
* `{{G2495}}` **Iōnâs** (Jonas): This is the prophet whose message prompted the Ninevites' response. He is described as a **sign** `{{G4592}}` to them [[Luke 11:30]].
* `{{G3340}}` **metanoéō** (repent): This term defines the pivotal action of the Ninevites, meaning "to think differently or afterwards, i.e. reconsider." Their repentance is the central reason they are cited as an example [[Matthew 12:41]].
* `{{G2782}}` **kḗrygma** (preaching): This refers to the "proclamation" of Jonas, which the Ninevites heeded, leading to their repentance [[Matthew 12:41]].
* `{{G2632}}` **katakrínō** (condemn): This word, meaning "to judge against, i.e. sentence," describes the future role of the men of Nineveh in judgment against the generation that rejected a greater message [[Matthew 12:41]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3536}}` is demonstrated in its specific use by Jesus:
* **A Standard for Judgment:** The Ninevites serve as a benchmark for accountability. Their willingness to **repent** `{{G3340}}` at the word of a prophet means they will **condemn** `{{G2632}}` those who heard Jesus—described as "a greater than Jonas"—and did not repent [[Matthew 12:41]].
* **The Efficacy of Repentance:** The story of the Ninevites is used to affirm the power of repentance. Their response to the **preaching** `{{G2782}}` of Jonas is held up as the correct reaction to a divine warning.
* **A Prophetic Sign:** The relationship between Jonas and the **Ninevites** `{{G3536}}` is established as a **sign** `{{G4592}}`. This foreshadows the role of the Son of **man** `{{G5207}}` as a sign for his own generation, linking the two events in redemptive history [[Luke 11:30]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3536}}` is more than a simple identifier for an inhabitant of Nineveh. Though used sparingly, the **Ninevites** are a powerful theological symbol in the New Testament. They represent a people who, in contrast to Jesus's audience, responded to God's messenger with repentance. Their story serves as a timeless warning and a standard of judgment for all who hear the divine call.
TRV