### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Nechĕlâmîy**, represented by `{{H5161}}`, is a patronymic term meaning **Nehelamite**. It is apparently derived from an unused name related to the concept of being "dreamed" and signifies a descendant of Nechlam. This term is rare, appearing only **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the book of Jeremiah.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5161}}` is used exclusively to identify a specific individual named **Shemaiah** `{{H8098}}`. The context is a series of divine pronouncements. The LORD `{{H3068}}` addresses **Shemaiah** the **Nehelamite** `{{H5161}}` directly [[Jeremiah 29:24]]. He is condemned because he prophesied to the exiles without being sent by God, causing them to **trust** `{{H982}}` in a **lie** `{{H8267}}` [[Jeremiah 29:31]]. As a result, a judgment is declared against the **Nehelamite** `{{H5161}}` and his **seed** `{{H2233}}`, stating he will not have a **man** `{{H376}}` to **dwell** `{{H3427}}` among the people or see the **good** `{{H2896}}` God will do for them [[Jeremiah 29:32]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context surrounding the **Nehelamite**:
* `{{H8098}}` **Shᵉmaʻyâh** (Shemaiah): The proper name of the individual identified as the **Nehelamite**. The name's definition is "Jah has heard."
* `{{H5012}}` **nâbâʼ** (to prophesy): This describes the action Shemaiah performed without divine authority, speaking by inspiration that was not from God [[Jeremiah 29:31]].
* `{{H5627}}` **çârâh** (rebellion): This is the specific crime Shemaiah was guilty of teaching against the **LORD** `{{H3068}}`, which is defined as apostasy or revolt [[Jeremiah 29:32]].
* `{{H1473}}` **gôwlâh** (exile): This identifies the audience Shemaiah misled, the exiles or captives to whom he sent his false message [[Jeremiah 29:31]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5161}}` is found in the cautionary narrative of the man it identifies.
* **The Source of Prophetic Authority:** The story of Shemaiah the **Nehelamite** `{{H5161}}` underscores that true prophecy originates solely from the **LORD** `{{H3068}}`. Shemaiah is condemned because he "hath prophesied... and I sent him not" [[Jeremiah 29:31]], highlighting that human-derived oracles are illegitimate.
* **Accountability for False Teaching:** The judgment against Shemaiah demonstrates the severe consequences of spiritual deception. Because he "hath taught **rebellion** `{{H5627}}` against the LORD," he and his descendants are cut off from the community and its future blessings [[Jeremiah 29:32]].
* **Divine Judgment Against Deceivers:** The LORD's promise to **punish** `{{H6485}}` Shemaiah the **Nehelamite** `{{H5161}}` serves as a direct warning. It affirms that God actively opposes and brings judgment upon those who cause His **people** `{{H5971}}` to trust in a **lie** `{{H8267}}` [[Jeremiah 29:31-32]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5161}}` **Nechĕlâmîy** is more than a simple patronymic. It is indelibly linked to Shemaiah, a figure who serves as a key example of a false prophet within scripture. The term functions as a label for one who taught **rebellion** `{{H5627}}` and spoke a lie in God's name. The narrative of the **Nehelamite** is a solemn reminder of the necessity of divine commission for spiritual authority and the certainty of God's judgment on those who mislead His people.
TRV