### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Nᵉbâyôwth**, represented by `{{H5032}}`, is a name derived from a root meaning "fruitfulnesses." It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** and refers to **Nebajoth, a son of Ismael, and the country settled by him**. This name is primarily used to establish genealogical lines and, in prophecy, to represent a people and their wealth.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5032}}` first appears to identify the lineage of Ishmael's descendants. Nebajoth is explicitly named as the **firstborn** of Ishmael, establishing his prominence among his brothers ([[Genesis 25:13]]; [[1 Chronicles 1:29]]). His family line is also connected to Jacob's, as Esau takes the sister of **Nebajoth** as a wife ([[Genesis 28:9]]; [[Genesis 36:3]]). Prophetically, the "rams of **Nebaioth**" are mentioned alongside the flocks of Kedar as resources that will one day **minister** `{{H8334}}` and be accepted on God's **altar** `{{H4196}}` [[Isaiah 60:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and significance of Nebaioth:
* `{{H3458}}` **Yishmâʻêʼl** (Ishmael): This is the name of Nebaioth's father. The connection is foundational to his identity as Ishmael's **firstborn** [[Genesis 25:13]].
* `{{H1060}}` **bᵉkôwr** (firstborn): This term defines Nebaioth's specific status as the eldest son of Ishmael, a position of significance in patriarchal genealogies ([[Genesis 25:13]]; [[1 Chronicles 1:29]]).
* `{{H6938}}` **Qêdâr** (Kedar): The name of Nebaioth's brother. They are listed together in genealogies and are paired in the prophecy of Isaiah, where the flocks of **Kedar** and the rams of Nebaioth are gathered [[Isaiah 60:7]].
* `{{H352}}` **ʼayil** (ram): This word signifies the specific form of wealth and offering associated with the people of Nebaioth in the context of future worship and service to God [[Isaiah 60:7]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H5032}}` is primarily seen through its role in lineage and prophecy.
* **Genealogical Marker:** Nebaioth serves as a key figure in the recorded generations of Ishmael, marking the beginning of his line as the **firstborn** [[Genesis 25:13]]. This reinforces the biblical practice of carefully documenting family lines.
* **Prophetic Inclusion:** In Isaiah, the name represents a Gentile people whose wealth, specifically their **rams** `{{H352}}`, will be brought to God's **altar** `{{H4196}}`. This points to a future time of worship that includes nations beyond Israel.
* **Symbol of Consecrated Wealth:** The "rams of Nebaioth" that **minister** `{{H8334}}` unto God symbolize the devotion of foreign nations and their resources to **glorify** `{{H6286}}` the house of God's **glory** `{{H8597}}` [[Isaiah 60:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5032}}` transitions from a simple genealogical name to a symbol with prophetic weight. Initially introduced as the **firstborn** of Ishmael, the name Nebaioth comes to represent his descendants. Ultimately, this name is used to illustrate a future hope where even the descendants of Ishmael will participate in the worship of God, bringing their finest offerings to His altar.
TRV