לְמוּאֵל (le.mu.el)
le.mu.el
Lemuel
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Lemuel, meaning "for God," appears only twice in Scripture, both within the thirty-first chapter of Proverbs. It identifies a king from Massa, to whom his mother directed a collection of wise sayings about leadership and justice. The text presents these words as royal instruction, offering a rare glimpse into maternal wisdom shaping governance.
While the Bible does not explicitly name him, many scholars suggest Lemuel may be another title for King Solomon. This connection rests on the similar themes of royal advice found in Proverbs 1–29, which are traditionally attributed to Solomon. Whether distinct or identical, the figure serves as a literary anchor for teachings on righteous rule.
The brevity of his mention highlights the enduring value of the advice given rather than the identity of the recipient. The phrase "for God" underscores that true kingship is accountable to divine standards. This single name preserves a moment where maternal counsel meets royal authority, reminding readers that wisdom transcends specific historical figures.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Lemuel means "for God," a reminder that every role we hold carries divine accountability. In Proverbs 31, a mother’s wisdom shapes her son’s understanding of leadership, showing us that guidance often comes from those who love us most. This connection between parental counsel and public duty highlights how our personal relationships ground our broader responsibilities.
When we face decisions about authority or influence, this text invites us to consider the source of our strength. It is not enough to hold a position; we must steward it with integrity. The warning against excess in Proverbs 31:4 serves as a timeless check on power, urging us to remain clear-headed and focused on what truly matters rather than fleeting pleasures.
Ultimately, this passage points to the value of listening to wise voices in our lives. Whether you are leading a team or managing your home, remember that true strength lies in humility and restraint. Let the example of Lemuel encourage you to seek wisdom daily, knowing that your actions reflect not just on yourself, but on the God who placed you where you are.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- O Lemuel1×
- Lemuel1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- לְמוּאֵ֣ל1×
- לְֽמוֹאֵ֗ל1×
Key Verses
-
Proverbs 31:1
The words of King Lemuel—the revelation which his mother taught him:
This verse establishes the source of the wisdom as maternal instruction, framing the subsequent teachings as a legacy of faith passed from mother to son.
-
Proverbs 31:4
It is not for kings, Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine, nor for princes to say, ‘Where is strong drink?’
Here the word Lemuel is used directly in a warning against alcohol, linking the name to the specific duty of maintaining clarity and self-control in leadership.