### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **nᵉbîyʼâh**, represented by `{{H5031}}`, is the feminine form of **nâbîyʼ** and is defined as a **prophetess**. It can also refer to an inspired woman, a poetess, or by association, a prophet's wife. This term appears **6 times** in **6 unique verses**, highlighting its specific but significant role in the biblical narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5031}}` is used to identify specific women with prophetic roles or associations. Miriam is named a **prophetess** as she leads the women of Israel in a song of victory with timbrels and dances [[Exodus 15:20]]. Deborah, also a **prophetess**, is recorded as judging Israel at that time [[Judges 4:4]]. Huldah the **prophetess** was consulted by Hilkiah the priest and others from the king's court ([[2 Kings 22:14]]; [[2 Chronicles 34:22]]). The term is also applied to Isaiah's wife, who conceived and bore a son [[Isaiah 8:3]]. In contrast, Nehemiah mentions the **prophetess** Noadiah in a prayer, identifying her among those who sought to put him in fear [[Nehemiah 6:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the role and identity of a **prophetess**:
* `{{H5030}}` **nâbîyʼ** (a prophet or (generally) inspired man; prophecy, that prophesy, prophet): This is the masculine counterpart to **nᵉbîyʼâh**. The role of a prophet is foundational, as God promises to raise up a **prophet** and put His words in his mouth [[Deuteronomy 18:18]].
* `{{H4813}}` **Miryâm** (rebelliously; Mirjam, the name of two Israelitesses; Miriam): The name of the first woman explicitly called a **prophetess** in scripture [[Exodus 15:20]]. She played a significant leadership role alongside Moses and Aaron [[Micah 6:4]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H5031}}` carries significant theological weight, demonstrating God's employment of women in key spiritual roles.
* **Divine Counsel:** The term identifies women who were conduits for God's word. Huldah was sought out by the high priest and royal officials for her prophetic insight during a national crisis ([[2 Kings 22:14]]; [[2 Chronicles 34:22]]).
* **Spiritual Leadership and Judgment:** The **prophetess** Deborah held the position of a judge over Israel, a role of immense authority and responsibility [[Judges 4:4]]. Miriam is shown leading the women in worshipful celebration after the deliverance at the Red Sea [[Exodus 15:20]].
* **Prophetic Association:** The title could also denote a close association with a prophet, as seen when Isaiah refers to his wife as "the **prophetess**" in the context of a divinely named child [[Isaiah 8:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5031}}` **nᵉbîyʼâh** is a specific and powerful term for a **prophetess**. While it appears only six times, it is used to describe women of significant influence and spiritual authority, such as Deborah, Huldah, and Miriam. The word encompasses not only those who speak for God but also those associated with the prophetic office, illustrating that God's call to communicate His will was not limited by gender in the biblical record.
TRV