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.
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.
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.
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.
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