a primitive root; properly, to whisper, i.e. (by implication) to utter as aoracle; say.
Transliteration:nâʼam
Pronunciation:naw-am'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root `{{H5001}}` (נָאַם, *nâʼam*) is a primitive root whose core meaning evolves from a subtle vocalization to a profound declaration. Its etymological root suggests "to whisper" or "to murmur," implying a low, indistinct sound. However, its primary use in the Biblical text transcends this initial sense, developing into the specialized meaning of "to utter as an oracle" or "to declare authoritatively." This semantic shift highlights that the utterance is not merely human speech, but a pronouncement imbued with divine authority and certainty. It signifies a solemn, weighty declaration, often one that originates from a divine source and is delivered with ultimate truth and finality.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb `{{H5001}}` is almost exclusively used in the context of divine communication, particularly in prophetic literature. It rarely appears as a simple verb; rather, it is most famously found in the construct phrase "נְאֻם יְהוָה" (*ne'um YHWH*), translated as "declares the LORD," "the oracle of the LORD," or "says the LORD." This phrase serves as a divine imprimatur, marking the preceding or following words as a direct revelation from God Himself, not merely the prophet's own thoughts or interpretations.
Examples abound throughout the prophetic books:
* In Jeremiah, the phrase "נְאֻם יְהוָה" frequently punctuates divine pronouncements of judgment and restoration, emphasizing the certainty of God's word, as seen in [[Jeremiah 23:31]] where false prophets speak their own words, not those "declares the LORD." Conversely, God's steadfast promises are affirmed, such as in [[Jeremiah 29:11]]: "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope."
* Ezekiel similarly employs this phrase to underscore the divine origin of his often dramatic prophecies, for instance, in [[Ezekiel 5:11]]: "Therefore as I live, declares the Lord GOD..."
* In Isaiah, the phrase reinforces the immutable nature of God's promises and warnings, as in [[Isaiah 56:8]]: "The Lord GOD, who gathers the outcasts of Israel, declares: 'I will gather yet others to him besides those already gathered.'"
* The minor prophets also utilize `{{H5001}}` to authenticate their messages, such as in [[Amos 9:12]]: "...that they may possess the remnant of Edom and all the nations who are called by my name, declares the LORD who does this."
The consistent use of `{{H5001}}` in conjunction with the divine name YHWH signifies that the words spoken are not human conjecture or opinion, but the very decree of the sovereign God, carrying ultimate authority and ensuring their fulfillment.
### Related Words & Concepts
While other Hebrew words convey the act of speaking, `{{H5001}}` holds a distinct authoritative nuance.
* `{{H559}}` (אָמַר, *ʼāmar*), "to say" or "to speak," is a general verb for communication, used for both human and divine speech, lacking the specific oracular weight of `{{H5001}}`.
* `{{H1697}}` (דָּבָר, *dāḇār*), "word" or "thing," often refers to a spoken utterance or a matter, and while it can denote a divine word, it does not inherently carry the same "declared by God" force as the construct phrase involving `{{H5001}}`.
* The concept of prophecy itself is intrinsically linked to `{{H5001}}`. A true prophet is one through whom God "declares" His word. This distinguishes genuine prophetic revelation from human invention or false prophecy, which is explicitly condemned in passages like [[Jeremiah 23:31]] where the false prophets "declare oracles" that are not from the Lord.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H5001}}` is profound and multi-faceted:
1. **Divine Authority:** It unequivocally establishes the divine origin and supreme authority of the words spoken. When God "declares," it is not a suggestion or a possibility, but a decree that will certainly come to pass. This underscores God's omnipotence and sovereignty over all creation and history.
2. **Reliability of God's Word:** The phrase "declares the LORD" serves as a powerful affirmation of the trustworthiness and immutability of God's promises, warnings, and judgments. What God declares, He will perform. This provides a foundational assurance for Israel's faith and hope.
3. **Nature of Prophecy:** `{{H5001}}` highlights that true prophecy is not the prophet's own wisdom or foresight, but a direct, inspired transmission of God's message. The prophet acts as a mouthpiece, a conduit for the divine oracle. This emphasizes the passive role of the prophet in receiving revelation and the active role of God in initiating and delivering His word.
4. **God's Active Engagement:** The frequent use of this term demonstrates God's continuous and active engagement with humanity and history. He is not a distant deity but one who speaks, reveals His will, and intervenes in the affairs of His people and the world.
### Summary
`{{H5001}}` (נָאַם, *nâʼam*) is a potent Hebrew root primarily signifying a solemn, authoritative divine declaration. While its root meaning suggests a whisper, its predominant biblical usage, especially in the phrase "נְאֻם יְהוָה" ("declares the LORD"), elevates it to the status of an immutable oracle from God Himself. This word is crucial for understanding the nature of prophetic revelation, affirming the absolute authority, reliability, and divine origin of God's spoken word. It underscores God's sovereign will, His active engagement in history, and the certainty that what He declares will unfailingly come to pass.
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