נָאַם (na.am)
na.am
to prophesy
H:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:V
Word Overview
The Hebrew verb na’am appears only once in the Old Testament, found in Jeremiah 23:31. In this specific context, it means to prophesy or speak as a prophet. The word functions as a denominal verb, derived from the noun for prophecy, indicating the act of delivering a divine message.
Its usage here is part of a strong rebuke against false prophets who claim to have received visions from God when they had not. By using this term, the text highlights the contrast between genuine prophetic utterance and the deceptive claims of those seeking attention. The sources note that it simply denotes the act of speaking as a prophet, without adding extra nuance about the content or validity beyond the immediate context of judgment.
Because it is so rare, the word does not carry a wide range of meanings across Scripture. Translators typically render it as "prophesy" or "speak," keeping the focus on the claim of divine authority rather than the emotional state of the speaker. This singular occurrence serves as a sharp reminder in Jeremiah that true prophecy is not merely about claiming to speak for God, but about being sent by Him.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word na’am appears only once in the Old Testament, in Jeremiah 23:31. It describes the act of prophesying, but here it is used to expose false claims. God warns against those who say “He says” without being sent by Him. This rare verb reminds us that true communication with God requires honesty and divine commission, not just bold words.
In your life, this challenges you to examine the source of your own convictions. Are you speaking from a genuine encounter with God, or merely repeating what sounds spiritual? Jeremiah’s warning invites you to seek authenticity over performance. It is better to be silent than to claim authority you do not hold.
This single occurrence highlights the seriousness of claiming divine speech. It calls believers to humility and truthfulness in all things. When we speak about God, let it be with care and reverence, knowing that He hears and judges the heart behind every word.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ they have uttered1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וַֽ/יִּנְאֲמ֖וּ1×
Key Verses
-
Jeremiah 23:31
Behold, I am against the prophets,” says Yahweh, “who use their tongues, and say, ‘He says.’
This verse uses na’am to condemn false prophets who claim divine authority without being sent by God, highlighting the danger of empty religious speech.