### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nᵉʼum**, represented by `{{H5002}}`, is a solemn declaration translated as an **oracle**, or more frequently, **saith**. It appears **376 times** across **358 unique verses**, primarily functioning as a divine signature to authenticate a message from God. Its use signifies that the words spoken are not of human origin but are a direct and authoritative proclamation from the LORD.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5002}}` is the definitive marker of a divine utterance, used extensively by the prophets to convey God's direct speech. It is attached to promises of restoration and healing, as when God declares, "I will restore health unto thee... **saith** the LORD" [[Jeremiah 30:17]]. It affirms foundational truths about God's nature, such as "my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, **saith** the LORD" [[Isaiah 55:8]]. The term is also critical in announcing God's covenantal acts, including the promise of a new covenant [[Jeremiah 31:31]] and the Messianic prophecy where "The LORD **said** unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand" [[Psalms 110:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of a divine oracle:
* `{{H559}}` **'âmar** (to say): This is a common verb for speaking or saying. It is often used to introduce a divine quote, which is then concluded with the authoritative weight of `{{H5002}}`, as seen in phrases like "Thus **saith** the LORD... **saith** the LORD" [[Zechariah 1:3]].
* `{{H1697}}` **dâbâr** (a word): This noun represents the substance of the message itself. The power of God's **word** is often highlighted in direct proximity to an oracle, such as, "Is not my **word** like as a fire? **saith** the LORD" [[Jeremiah 23:29]].
* `{{H5012}}` **nâbâʼ** (to prophesy): This verb describes the act of speaking by divine inspiration. God uses `{{H5002}}` to distinguish his true oracles from those who falsely **prophesy** [[Jeremiah 23:32]], linking the authentic prophetic gift to His declared word.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5002}}` is profound, establishing the absolute authority and personal nature of God's communication.
* **Divine Authority:** The term functions as a seal of authenticity. When a prophet uses the phrase "**saith** the LORD," it serves as an undeniable claim that the message originates from God himself, setting it apart from all human wisdom or false prophecy [[Jeremiah 23:32]].
* **Covenantal Proclamation:** It is intrinsically linked to God's covenants. The most significant promises, including the new covenant to be written on the hearts of His people, are marked by this term, underscoring their certainty and divine guarantee [[Jeremiah 31:33]].
* **Immediacy of God's Word:** The frequent use of `{{H5002}}` emphasizes God's direct involvement with humanity. He is not a distant creator but one who personally communicates His thoughts [[Jeremiah 29:11]], judgments [[Ezekiel 18:30]], and intimate desire for relationship with His people [[Jeremiah 3:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5002}}` is far more than a simple verb for "saith." It is a technical term for a divine **oracle**, a stamp of ultimate authority on a message. Its presence in Scripture signals to the reader that the words are not merely recorded history or human counsel but a direct, unmediated, and binding proclamation from the LORD `{{H3068}}` Himself. It serves as the bridge between the divine mind and human understanding, carrying the full weight of God's promises, warnings, and redemptive plans.
TRV