(Aramaic) corresponding to נָבָא; {to prophesy, i.e. speak (or sing) by inspiration (in prediction or simple discourse) to prophesy, i.e. speak (or sing) by inspiration (in prediction or simple discourse)}; prophesy.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **nᵉbâʼ**, represented by `{{H5013}}`, means **to prophesy**. It appears just **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The term refers to the act of speaking or singing by inspiration, which can be for the purpose of prediction or simple discourse.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{H5013}}` is found in [[Ezra 5:1]], where the prophets Haggai and Zechariah **prophesied** to the Jews in Judah and Jerusalem. This act of inspired speaking was directly tied to the work of rebuilding the house of God. The prophets are described as helping with the construction [[Ezra 5:2]], and the elders of the Jews were able to build and prosper specifically because of the prophesying of Haggai and Zechariah [[Ezra 6:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the action of prophesying:
* `{{H5029}}` **nᵉbîyʼ** (prophet): This Aramaic noun corresponds to the verb **nᵉbâʼ**. In [[Ezra 5:1]], it identifies Haggai and Zechariah as the ones who performed the act of prophesying.
* `{{H2292}}` **Chaggay** (Haggai): The name of one of the prophets who **prophesied** in the name of the God of Israel [[Ezra 5:1]]. His words are described as the "LORD'S message" [[Haggai 1:13]].
* `{{H2148}}` **Zᵉkaryâh** (Zechariah): The other prophet who, alongside Haggai, **prophesied** to the Jews [[Ezra 5:1]]. The building effort is said to have prospered through his prophesying [[Ezra 6:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H5013}}` is concentrated in its sole appearance:
* **Divine Authority:** The prophesying was done "in the name of the God of Israel" [[Ezra 5:1]], indicating that the words spoken by Haggai and Zechariah originated from God and carried His authority.
* **Prophecy as Catalyst:** The act of prophesying was not passive; it was a catalyst for action. It prompted the leaders to begin building the house of God [[Ezra 5:2]] and was the direct cause of their prosperity in the work [[Ezra 6:14]].
* **Fulfillment of Command:** The prophesying served as the vehicle for God's will, leading to the completion of the temple "according to the commandment of the God of Israel" [[Ezra 6:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5013}}` **nᵉbâʼ**, while rare, offers a focused illustration of prophecy in action. Its singular use in [[Ezra 5:1]] shows that to prophesy is to deliver an inspired message that can empower God's people, provide divine help for a task, and directly contribute to the fulfillment of God's commands on earth. It demonstrates a clear link between the spoken word of God's prophets and the successful rebuilding of His house.
TRV