### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Nâthân**, represented by `{{H5416}}`, means **given**. It appears 42 times across 39 unique verses in the Bible and is the name given to five Israelites. Its most prominent use is for Nathan the prophet, a key figure who delivered God's word during the reign of King David.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, **Nâthân** `{{H5416}}` is most famously the prophet whom the LORD **sent** `{{H7971}}` to King David [[2 Samuel 12:1]]. He courageously confronted David about his sin with Bathsheba, declaring "Thou art the man," which led to David's repentance ([[2 Samuel 12:7]], [[2 Samuel 12:13]]). Nathan also acted as a divine messenger for God's covenant with David [[2 Samuel 7:4]] and was integral in the anointing of Solomon as the next king [[1 Kings 1:34]]. Beyond the prophet, the name also identifies one of David's sons born in Jerusalem [[2 Samuel 5:14]] and a "house of **Nathan**" that will mourn apart in a future prophecy [[Zechariah 12:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the role and function of figures named **Nâthân**:
* `{{H5030}}` **nâbîyʼ** (a prophet or (generally) inspired man): This title is repeatedly attached to Nathan, defining his primary office. He is called "Nathan the **prophet**" when confronting David and securing Solomon's kingship ([[Psalms 51:1]], [[1 Kings 1:10]]).
* `{{H1697}}` **dâbâr** (a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing): This signifies the divine message Nathan carried. The "**word** of the LORD" came to Nathan, which he then delivered to David [[2 Samuel 7:4]]. The "acts" of both David and Solomon are also recorded in the **book** `{{H1697}}` of Nathan ([[1 Chronicles 29:29]], [[2 Chronicles 9:29]]).
* `{{H7971}}` **shâlach** (to send away, for, or out): This verb establishes Nathan's divine authority. The narrative explicitly states that "the LORD **sent** Nathan unto David" to deliver His message [[2 Samuel 12:1]].
### Theological Significance
The accounts involving **Nâthân** `{{H5416}}` carry significant theological weight, particularly concerning the role of the prophet.
* **Divine Accountability:** Nathan's mission to confront David demonstrates that even the highest earthly authority is accountable to God. He was **sent** `{{H7971}}` by the LORD to **say** `{{H559}}`, "Thou art the man," directly rebuking the king for his sin ([[2 Samuel 12:1]], [[2 Samuel 12:7]]).
* **Guidance in Kingship:** Nathan served as a direct line of communication from God to the king. He delivered the **word** `{{H1697}}` of the LORD regarding David's desire to build a house for God and was instrumental in anointing Solomon, ensuring the continuation of the Davidic line ([[2 Samuel 7:4]], [[1 Kings 1:34]]).
* **Inspired Record-Keeping:** The mention of the "book of Nathan the **prophet**" `{{H5030}}` as a source for the history of David and Solomon underscores the prophetic role in preserving the sacred narrative and God's dealings with His people ([[1 Chronicles 29:29]], [[2 Chronicles 9:29]]).
### Summary
In summary, **Nâthân** `{{H5416}}` is a name whose meaning, **given**, is embodied by the individuals who bore it, especially the prophet. He was not merely an advisor but a divine gift to the kingdom of Israel, tasked with delivering God's unvarnished **word** `{{H1697}}`, confronting sin even in the highest places [[2 Samuel 12:7]], and ensuring God's will for the monarchy was fulfilled [[1 Kings 1:34]]. The legacy of Nathan illustrates the vital role of the prophet in guiding, correcting, and chronicling the history of God's people.
TRV