The Hebrew word nᵉbûwʼâh, represented by H5016, is defined as a prediction (spoken or written); prophecy. Derived from the word for prophesying, it appears 3 times in 3 unique verses. The term specifically refers to the message itself, whether delivered orally or as a written record.
In the biblical narrative, H5016 is used to denote authoritative messages. It is presented as a form of historical record in the "prophecy of Ahijah the Shilonite," which chronicled the acts of Solomon 2 Chronicles 9:29. It also functions as a direct, spoken message that prompts action, as when King Asa heard the "prophecy of Oded the prophet" and took courage to purge the land of idols and renew the LORD's altar 2 Chronicles 15:8. The term also carries the weight of authenticity, as seen when Nehemiah perceived that a prophecy spoken against him was not from God, but was a hired pronouncement Nehemiah 6:12.
Several related words provide a fuller context for the concept of prophecy:
- H5030 nâbîyʼ (prophet): This identifies the person who delivers the prophecy, described as a "prophet or (generally) inspired man." The prophecy of Oded is delivered by Oded the prophet 2 Chronicles 15:8.
- H1697 dâbâr (a word; a matter): This term for "word" or "matter" is used in conjunction with prophecy, as when Asa heard "these words, and the prophecy of Oded" 2 Chronicles 15:8.
- H2374 chôzeh (seer): Meaning "a beholder in vision," this term describes a person receiving divine communication visually. It is used in parallel with "prophet," as the "visions of Iddo the seer" are listed alongside the "prophecy of Ahijah" 2 Chronicles 9:29.
- H2378 châzôwth (vision): This word for "a revelation" is directly linked to prophecy. The "visions of Iddo the seer" are recorded next to the "prophecy of Ahijah" 2 Chronicles 9:29.
The theological significance of H5016 centers on the nature of divine communication and its reception.
- Divine Record: Prophecy can function as a divinely sanctioned historical account. The "prophecy of Ahijah" is cited as an authoritative source for the events of Solomon's reign 2 Chronicles 9:29.
- Call to Action: A true prophecy from God is not passive information but an active word intended to produce a response. The prophecy given to King Asa resulted in immediate religious reform and covenant renewal 2 Chronicles 15:8.
- Discernment of Source: The concept highlights the critical need for discernment. Nehemiah's ability to perceive that a prophecy was not sent from God but was pronounced by a hired man demonstrates that not all prophetic utterances are legitimate Nehemiah 6:12.
In summary, H5016 defines the substance of a prophetic message. Though used infrequently, its appearances are significant, illustrating that a prophecy can be a written chronicle, a spoken directive for repentance and action, or a deceptive pronouncement from a false source. The term underscores the biblical importance of heeding God's true word while simultaneously testing the spirits to discern a message's origin.
TRV