### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nâʼam**, represented by `{{H5001}}`, is a primitive root defined as to properly whisper, or by implication, to utter as an oracle or to say. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H5001}}` is found in a context of divine judgment against false prophets. In [[Jeremiah 23:31]], the Lord declares he is against the prophets who "use their tongues, and **say**, He saith." Here, the word is used to describe the illegitimate act of a prophet inventing an oracle, contrasting their self-generated utterance with a true declaration from God.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a broader context for understanding divine communication and its imitation:
* `{{H5002}}` **nᵉʼum** (an oracle; (hath) said, saith): This word, derived from `{{H5001}}`, signifies a genuine oracle. It is often used to introduce a direct proclamation from God, as in, "The LORD **said** unto my Lord" [[Psalms 110:1]].
* `{{H5030}}` **nâbîyʼ** (a prophet or (generally) inspired man): This is the subject of the rebuke in [[Jeremiah 23:31]]. While a true prophet speaks for God, this verse warns against those who falsely hold the title. The Lord promises to raise up a true **Prophet** for His people [[Deuteronomy 18:18]].
* `{{H3947}}` **lâqach** (to take): The verse specifies that the false prophets **use** or "take" their own tongues to speak, indicating a human-initiated action rather than divine inspiration. The word can mean to receive, as in, "thou hast **received** gifts for men" [[Psalms 68:18]].
* `{{H3956}}` **lâshôwn** (the tongue): This is the instrument the false prophets misuse. Scripture elsewhere affirms the power held by the **tongue**, stating that "Death and life are in the power of the **tongue**" [[Proverbs 18:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5001}}` is concentrated in its single, critical use, highlighting the difference between true and false divine speech.
* **Authenticity of Revelation:** The term's usage is a direct condemnation of fabricating divine messages. The Lord is specifically "against the prophets" who **say** `{{H5001}}` things He has not spoken, which is contrasted with what He truly "saith" `{{H5002}}` [[Jeremiah 23:31]].
* **Misuse of Prophetic Office:** The context links the false utterance `{{H5001}}` to prophets `{{H5030}}` who actively "use" `{{H3947}}` their own tongues `{{H3956}}`. This underscores the grave responsibility of those who claim to speak for God and the sin of speaking from one's own authority.
* **The Source of Oracles:** The word helps to define what a true oracle is by showing what it is not. A legitimate oracle `{{H5002}}` comes from the Lord, whereas the action of `{{H5001}}` is a human-centered imitation that presumes upon divine authority.
### Summary
In summary, while appearing only once, `{{H5001}}` **nâʼam** serves a crucial function. It sharply defines the act of uttering a false oracle, standing as a permanent biblical warning against prophets who speak from their own minds rather than from a true revelation from God. Its usage in [[Jeremiah 23:31]] crystallizes the vital distinction between human speech and a divine word.
TRV