(Aramaic) corresponding to נְבוּאָה; inspired teaching; prophesying.
Transliteration:nᵉbûwʼâh
Pronunciation:neb-oo-aw
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic lemma `{{H5017}}` (נְבוּאָה, nᵉbûwʼâh) serves as the direct Aramaic counterpart to the more frequently occurring Hebrew `{{H5016}}` (נְבוּאָה, nᵉbû'â). Its base definition, "inspired teaching; prophesying," clearly delineates its semantic core. This word refers primarily to the act of delivering a divine message or, by extension, the content of such a message itself. It encapsulates the concept of communication emanating from God, conveyed through human agents, typically prophets. The "inspired" aspect is crucial, distinguishing it from mere human conjecture or opinion, marking it as revelation from a transcendent source. Thus, nᵉbûwʼâh signifies the authoritative, divinely-breathed utterance that shapes understanding of God's will, character, and future plans.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
It is important to note that while `{{H5017}}` (נְבוּאָה, nᵉbûwʼâh) is provided as an Aramaic lemma corresponding to the Hebrew term for "prophecy," this specific Aramaic form does not appear in the extant biblical text. Its inclusion in lexicons serves to provide a complete linguistic parallel to its more common Hebrew cognate `{{H5016}}`.
Despite its non-occurrence, the *concept* of prophecy and divinely inspired teaching is profoundly central to the Aramaic portions of the Old Testament, particularly in the books of Daniel and Ezra. In Daniel, divine revelation through dreams, visions, and angelic interpretation (e.g., [[Daniel 2:28]], [[Daniel 7:1]]) is the primary means by which God communicates His sovereign plan for history and the nations. Though the word nᵉbûwʼâh itself is absent, the *phenomenon* of prophesying and the reception of divine "teaching" are foundational to Daniel's narrative and theological message. Similarly, in Ezra, while the focus is on restoration and decree, the underlying conviction of God's guiding hand and revealed will (e.g., through the prophets Haggai and Zechariah, mentioned in [[Ezra 5:1]]) underscores the continued importance of inspired communication. Therefore, `{{H5017}}`, though unattested, represents a crucial theological category for understanding God's interaction with His people and the world during the periods reflected in the Aramaic biblical texts.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct and significant relation for `{{H5017}}` is its Hebrew counterpart, `{{H5016}}` (נְבוּאָה, nᵉbû'â), which is extensively used throughout the Hebrew Bible to denote "prophecy" or "prophetic utterance." Both terms derive from the root נבא (N-B-' ), which is associated with the concept of "to bubble up," "to pour forth," or "to prophesy."
Further related terms include:
* `{{H5012}}` (נָבִיא, nābî'), the Hebrew word for "prophet," the individual who delivers the nᵉbûwʼâh. The concept of the "prophet" is also present in Aramaic texts, for instance, in [[Ezra 5:1]] where Haggai and Zechariah are identified as "prophets."
* `{{H2376}}` (חֲזוֹן, ḥăzôn), an Aramaic term for "vision" (e.g., [[Daniel 2:28]]), which often serves as a vehicle for prophetic revelation.
* `{{H4406}}` (מִלָּה, millâ), an Aramaic word for "word" or "matter," which can encompass divine pronouncements (e.g., [[Daniel 4:33]]).
* `{{H1541}}` (גְּלָא, gᵉlā'), an Aramaic verb meaning "to reveal" or "to make known," describing the act of God unveiling mysteries, a core aspect of prophecy (e.g., [[Daniel 2:22]]).
These related words highlight the multifaceted nature of divine communication, encompassing the messenger, the medium, and the message itself, all converging on the concept of God's active self-disclosure.
### Theological Significance
While `{{H5017}}` itself does not appear in the biblical text, its existence as an Aramaic lemma underscores the pervasive and enduring theological significance of "prophesying" and "inspired teaching" across the biblical narrative, including the Aramaic portions. The concept nᵉbûwʼâh represents is foundational to understanding God's relationship with His creation.
Theologically, nᵉbûwʼâh signifies:
1. **Divine Initiative and Sovereignty:** Prophecy demonstrates that God is not silent or distant but actively engages with humanity, revealing His will and purpose. It affirms His sovereignty over history, nations, and individual lives, as seen vividly in Daniel's prophecies concerning world empires and the ultimate establishment of God's kingdom.
2. **Authoritative Revelation:** The "inspired" nature of nᵉbûwʼâh means it carries divine authority. It is not human wisdom but God's truth, providing guidance, warning, and comfort. This authority demands a response of obedience and faith.
3. **Covenantal Relationship:** Prophecy often functions within the framework of God's covenant with His people, calling them to faithfulness, reminding them of His promises, and revealing the consequences of disobedience.
4. **Foreknowledge and Hope:** A significant aspect of prophecy is its predictive element, revealing future events. This provides hope in God's ultimate plan of redemption and justice, assuring believers that God is working all things according to His purpose, even amidst present trials or exile. The Aramaic sections, particularly Daniel, are replete with such future-oriented prophecies.
### Summary
`{{H5017}}` (נְבוּאָה, nᵉbûwʼâh) is an Aramaic lemma corresponding to the Hebrew `{{H5016}}`, meaning "inspired teaching" or "prophesying." Although this specific Aramaic word does not appear in the biblical text, it represents a concept of profound theological importance. It encapsulates the divine act of communicating truth and revelation through human agents, a central theme in the Aramaic portions of Scripture, particularly in Daniel's visions and Ezra's accounts of temple rebuilding under prophetic guidance. The conceptual significance of nᵉbûwʼâh underscores God's active sovereignty, His authoritative self-revelation, and His ongoing engagement with humanity, providing both guidance for the present and hope for the future.
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