נִמְרָה (nim.rah)
nim.rah
Nimrah
N:N--LQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N--L
Word Overview
The proper noun Nimrah refers to a specific location situated east of the Jordan River, identified in Scripture as one of the cities allocated to the tribe of Gad (Numbers 32:3). The name itself carries the meaning "limpid" or "pure," suggesting a connection to clear water or a pristine environment. This etymology aligns with its geographical context near the Jordan valley, where fresh springs would have been vital for settlement and agriculture.
Lexical sources note that Nimrah is often considered another name for Beth-nimrah, meaning "House of Nimrah." This single occurrence in the Old Testament places it within the detailed list of fortified cities established by the Reubenites, Gadites, and half-tribe of Manasseh. The brevity of its biblical mention highlights its role as a concrete historical landmark rather than a theological symbol, anchoring the narrative of Israel's territorial expansion in a tangible place.
Translators typically retain the name Nimrah without attempting to render it into English, preserving its identity as a distinct toponym. Its significance lies in its contribution to the historical geography of the region, marking the extent of the eastern settlement. The word serves as a reminder of the specific, named locations that formed part of the tribal inheritance, grounding the biblical account in real-world topography.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Nimrah appears in Numbers 32:3 as one of the cities assigned to the tribe of Gad. The name itself suggests purity or clear water, a fitting description for a settlement near the Jordan valley where fresh springs were essential for survival and farming.
While this mention is brief, it grounds the biblical narrative in real geography. It reminds us that God’s promises were fulfilled in specific places with tangible resources. These cities provided stability for families who chose to settle east of the river, trusting in God’s provision for their daily needs.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ Nimrah1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וְ/נִמְרָ֔ה1×
Key Verses
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Numbers 32:3
“Ataroth, Dibon, Jazer, Nimrah, Heshbon, Elealeh, Sebam, Nebo, and Beon,
This verse lists Nimrah among the fortified cities allocated to Gad, highlighting its role as a concrete landmark in Israel's territorial inheritance.