The Hebrew word Nôwbay, represented by H5109, is the name of an Israelite. Its base definition is fruitful. The name, which is rendered as Nebai from the margin, is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire biblical text.
The sole appearance of H5109 is in a list of names. In the book of Nehemiah, Nebai is recorded among the leaders who sealed a covenant with God. The verse simply lists him alongside other prominent individuals: "Hariph, Anathoth, Nebai" Nehemiah 10:19. This context places him as a participant in a significant moment of national and spiritual rededication for Israel.
The word is understood primarily through its association with the other names listed in the same verse:
- H2756 Chârîyph (Hariph): Defined as autumnal, this is the name of two Israelites. He is listed immediately before Nebai in the covenant sealing Nehemiah 10:19 and is also mentioned as the head of a family whose children returned from exile Nehemiah 7:24.
- H6068 ʻĂnâthôwth (Anathoth): This name refers to two Israelites and a place. Anathoth is listed between Hariph and Nebai Nehemiah 10:19. The place of Anathoth is notable as the hometown of the prophet Jeremiah Jeremiah 1:1.
The significance of H5109 is derived entirely from its singular context.
- Covenant Sealing: The most important detail about Nebai is his participation in sealing the covenant during the time of Nehemiah, a solemn act of commitment to follow God's laws Nehemiah 10:19.
- Communal Affirmation: His name is recorded as part of a collective, alongside figures like Hariph H2756 and Anathoth H6068. This underscores the communal nature of Israel's rededication.
- A Recorded Name: Though no further details are given about him, the inclusion of the name Nebai, meaning "fruitful," serves as a permanent record of an individual who took part in this pivotal historic event.
In summary, H5109 is not a common term but a proper name, Nebai. Its meaning, "fruitful," is known, but its importance is tied exclusively to its appearance in Nehemiah. The word serves as a marker, identifying one of the individuals who publicly affirmed their allegiance to God by sealing the covenant, making it a name associated with faithfulness and communal restoration.
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