The Aramaic word nᵉbûwʼâh, represented by H5017, means inspired teaching or prophesying. As an Aramaic term corresponding to a Hebrew word, it appears just 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. Its singular use highlights a specific moment where divine instruction directly fueled a significant event.
The sole appearance of H5017 is in Ezra 6:14, which describes the successful rebuilding of the house of God. The verse states that the elders H7868 of the Jews H3062 builded H1124 and prospered H6744 specifically "through the prophesying" of the prophets Haggai and Zechariah. This inspired teaching is presented as the direct impetus for the work's progress, which was carried out according to the commandment H2941 of God H426 and the decrees of earthly kings.
Several related Aramaic words clarify the context of this prophesying:
- H5029 nᵉbîyʼ (a prophet): This is the title given to the men, Haggai H2292 and Zechariah H2148, who delivered the inspired teaching. Their role as a prophet was essential to the work Ezra 6:14.
- H1124 bᵉnâʼ (to build): This term describes the physical action that resulted from the prophesying. The inspired teaching was not merely abstract; it directly led the people to build the house of God Ezra 6:14.
- H6744 tsᵉlach (to advance; promote, prosper): This word defines the outcome of obedience to the inspired teaching. Because of the prophesying, the elders not only built, but they prospered in their efforts Ezra 6:14.
The theological weight of H5017 is evident even in its single use.
- A Catalyst for Action: The use of H5017 in Ezra 6:14 shows that inspired teaching is not passive. It serves as a direct catalyst that moves God's people to undertake and complete His work, in this case, the call to build H1124.
- The Source of Success: The passage explicitly links the prophesying of Haggai and Zechariah to the fact that the builders prospered H6744. This demonstrates a principle where acting on God's inspired word leads to advancement and success in His purposes.
- Divine and Human Partnership: The work succeeded through the prophesying H5017, which was in accordance with the commandment H2941 of God H426 and the commandment H2942 of kings. This highlights that prophetic encouragement can align divine will with human structures to accomplish a common goal.
In summary, nᵉbûwʼâh H5017 is a rare but potent term for inspired teaching. Its single appearance in scripture powerfully illustrates that prophesying is not merely speech, but a divine force that produces tangible results. As seen in Ezra 6:14, it provided the momentum for the elders of the Jews to build and prosper, turning a divine commandment into a finished reality. The word encapsulates the principle that God's inspired instruction, when heeded, empowers His people for action and ensures the success of their work.
TRV