(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.
Transliteration:nᵉbâʼ
Pronunciation:neb-aw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic verb נְבָא (transliterated as *nᵉbâʼ*, Strong's H5013) directly corresponds to the more common Hebrew verb נָבָא (transliterated as *nābāʼ*, Strong's `{{H5012}}`). At its core, the term signifies "to prophesy." The base definition clarifies this as "to speak (or sing) by inspiration," indicating a divine origin for the utterance. This inspiration can manifest in two primary ways: through "prediction," where future events are foretold, or through "simple discourse," which refers to the delivery of a divinely revealed message that may not be predictive but is nonetheless an authoritative word from God, offering guidance, instruction, or exhortation. The essence of *nᵉbâʼ* therefore lies in its conveyance of a message that transcends human wisdom, originating instead from a divine source.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
As an Aramaic term, נְבָא (H5013) appears exclusively in the Aramaic sections of the Old Testament, specifically within the book of Ezra. Its occurrences are limited but highly significant for understanding the post-exilic prophetic ministry.
In [[Ezra 5:1]], the text states, "Then the prophets, Haggai the prophet and Zechariah the son of Iddo, prophesied (וְנַבִּיאוּ, a form of H5013) to the Jews who were in Judah and Jerusalem, in the name of the God of Israel who was over them." Here, *nᵉbâʼ* clearly describes the divinely commissioned activity of Haggai and Zechariah. Their prophesying was not mere human advice but a direct communication from the God of Israel, aimed at stirring the returned exiles to resume and complete the rebuilding of the Temple. The phrase "in the name of the God of Israel" underscores the authoritative and inspired nature of their pronouncements.
Similarly, in [[Ezra 6:14]], the completion of the Temple is attributed, in part, to this prophetic activity: "And the elders of the Jews built, and they prospered through the prophesying (וּמְצַלְחִין בְּנִבְיַת, a related noun form derived from the same root) of Haggai the prophet and Zechariah the son of Iddo." While this specific instance uses a nominal form, it directly refers to the impact and efficacy of the verbal act of prophesying. The success of the building project is directly linked to the divine encouragement and direction provided through the prophets, demonstrating the tangible impact of God's inspired word. The context in Ezra highlights the crucial role of prophecy in providing divine guidance, motivation, and assurance to God's people during a period of reconstruction and spiritual renewal.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct and foundational relationship for H5013 is its Hebrew counterpart, `{{H5012}}` (נָבָא, *nābāʼ*), which carries the identical core meaning of "to prophesy." This strong correspondence indicates a shared understanding of the prophetic function across the Hebrew and Aramaic linguistic traditions within the biblical corpus.
Other closely related terms include:
* `{{H5030}}` (נָבִיא, *nābîʼ*): The noun for "prophet," designating the individual who speaks by divine inspiration. The prophet is the agent of the act of *nᵉbâʼ*.
* `{{H5034}}` (נְבוּאָה, *nᵊbûʼâ*): The noun for "prophecy," referring to the content or message delivered by the prophet.
* The concept of divine inspiration itself is paramount. This links *nᵉbâʼ* to broader themes of revelation (e.g., `{{H1540}}`, גָּלָה, *gālâ*, "to uncover, reveal") and divine speech (e.g., `{{H1696}}`, דָּבַר, *dābar*, "to speak"). The act of prophesying is fundamentally an act of God speaking through a human vessel.
* The authority inherent in prophetic speech also connects it to concepts of divine command and covenant, as the prophetic word often brings God's will and stipulations to His people.
### Theological Significance
The Aramaic verb *nᵉbâʼ* (H5013), though limited in its occurrences, carries profound theological weight.
1. **Divine Communication and Presence:** The very act of prophesying underscores God's active engagement with His creation and His people. It signifies that God is not distant or silent but chooses to communicate His will, purposes, and heart directly to humanity. This highlights God's immanence and His desire for relationship.
2. **The Authority of God's Word:** When a prophet *nᵉbâʼ*, the words spoken are not merely human opinion or wisdom but possess divine authority. This means the prophetic message is binding, trustworthy, and carries the power to effect change and bring about God's intended outcomes. The success of the Temple rebuilding in Ezra, directly attributed to the prophets' words, exemplifies this efficacy.
3. **The Role of the Prophet as God's Mouthpiece:** The term emphasizes that the prophet is fundamentally a messenger, a spokesperson for God. Their personality or human limitations are secondary to the divine origin of their message. They are divinely chosen and empowered to deliver God's word, whether it be for prediction, exhortation, or comfort.
4. **Guidance and Encouragement for God's People:** In the historical context of Ezra, the prophesying of Haggai and Zechariah was crucial for dispelling apathy and fear, and for galvanizing the community to complete the Temple. This demonstrates prophecy's vital role in providing divine direction, encouragement, and confirmation of God's ongoing covenant faithfulness, particularly in challenging times.
5. **Continuity of Revelation:** The presence of *nᵉbâʼ* in the post-exilic Aramaic sections affirms the continuity of divine revelation even after the return from exile. God continued to speak and guide His people through His chosen servants, demonstrating His unwavering commitment to His redemptive plan.
### Summary
The Aramaic verb נְבָא (H5013, *nᵉbâʼ*) means "to prophesy," signifying the act of speaking or singing by divine inspiration, whether in prediction or general discourse. It is the direct Aramaic equivalent of the more common Hebrew `{{H5012}}` (נָבָא). Though infrequent, its occurrences in Ezra, particularly in [[Ezra 5:1]] and [[Ezra 6:14]], are crucial. In these contexts, it describes the divinely empowered ministry of Haggai and Zechariah, whose prophetic words were instrumental in motivating and guiding the returned exiles to rebuild the Temple. The term underscores God's active and authoritative communication with humanity, highlighting the prophet's role as a divinely appointed messenger whose words carry God's power and bring about His purposes. It serves as a testament to God's continued engagement and guidance for His people throughout salvation history.
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