Brief Overview of Ναιμάν (Strong’s G3497: Naiman)

Unveiling the Word

In Biblical studies, understanding specific Greek words can offer deeper insights into the text’s cultural, theological, and historical significance. The word Ναιμάν (Naiman), which appears in Luke 4:27, is particularly significant because it references the figure of Naaman, a Syrian commander healed of leprosy by the prophet Elisha. This word is not only important for understanding the narrative of Naaman’s healing but also for interpreting Jesus’ reference to Naaman as a symbol of God’s grace extending to non-Israelites. Naaman’s story highlights themes of humility, faith, and the universality of God’s mercy, which are central to New Testament interpretation.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: Ναιμάν (Naiman), pronounced na-ee-MAN.

Etymology: The name Naaman comes from a Semitic origin, most likely Hebrew (נַעֲמָן, Na‘amān), meaning “pleasant” or “gracious.” The Greek form Ναιμάν directly reflects the transliteration of the original Hebrew name into Greek characters.

Part of Speech: Proper noun. Naaman is a masculine singular noun referring to a historical person, Naaman, the commander of the Syrian army.

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Defining Meanings

1. Naaman, the Syrian Commander: In the context of the New Testament (Luke 4:27), Naaman refers specifically to the commander of the Syrian army, known for being healed of leprosy by following the prophet Elisha’s instructions. His healing demonstrates God’s power and willingness to heal a non-Israelite, which Jesus emphasizes to his listeners.

2. Symbol of God’s Mercy: Naaman’s name and story became a symbol in the New Testament for the extension of God’s mercy and healing beyond the boundaries of Israel. Jesus’ mention of Naaman serves to highlight that God’s grace is available to all who exhibit faith, not just the Jewish people.

Exploring Similar Words

1. Γεζι (Gezi) [pronunciation: Geh-zi]: Gehazi, the servant of Elisha who played a part in Naaman’s story, differs in meaning as it refers to a different individual, not the commander of Syria. While Naaman’s role is one of faith and healing, Gehazi’s actions reflect greed and disobedience.

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2. Λεπρός (Lepros) [pronunciation: LEH-pros]: This word, meaning “leper” or “afflicted with leprosy,” connects to Naaman’s condition before his healing. Lepros signifies a broader category of individuals afflicted with leprosy, whereas Naaman refers to a specific individual who was healed.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Case, Number, Gender: The proper noun Ναιμάν follows the rules for Greek nouns and appears in the nominative case in Luke 4:27. The word is masculine and singular, referring to one specific person, Naaman.

Declension:

Case Singular

Nominative Ναιμάν

Genitive Ναιμάνος

Dative Ναιμάνι

Accusative Ναιμάν

Studying Lexicon Insights

In Greek lexicons, the name Ναιμάν is directly associated with the historical figure Naaman, who is known primarily for his healing from leprosy in 2 Kings 5. This event is significant in both the Old and New Testament because it highlights the themes of divine healing and grace extended to non-Jews. Lexicons further explain that Naaman is a symbol of God’s impartiality in showing favor and mercy.

In the classical and New Testament contexts, Ναιμάν is recognized as a key figure in demonstrating God’s willingness to perform miracles for those outside of Israel, which contributes to the theological concept of the universality of God’s grace.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Luke 4:27 – “And there were many lepers in Israel in the time of the prophet Elisha, and none of them was cleansed, but only Naaman [Ναιμάν] the Syrian.”

2. 2 Kings 5:1 (Old Testament reference) – “Naaman [Ναιμάν], commander of the army of the king of Syria, was a great man with his master and in high favor, because by him the Lord had given victory to Syria.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Since Ναιμάν is a proper noun referring to a specific individual from a Biblical narrative, it does not appear in broader Greek classical literature. However, it features prominently in Septuagint references (Greek Old Testament) to the story in 2 Kings 5.

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word Ναιμάν (G3497), transliterated as Naaman, refers to the Syrian commander healed by Elisha as recounted in both 2 Kings 5 and Luke 4:27. The name Naaman holds deep theological significance, as it represents God’s willingness to extend mercy and healing beyond the nation of Israel. Jesus’ reference to Naaman in Luke emphasizes the inclusivity of God’s grace. Understanding Naaman in the New Testament context is crucial for interpreting how early Christians understood God’s favor as extending to Gentiles as well.

Did You Know?

1. Naaman’s story in 2 Kings is one of the most famous healing narratives in the Old Testament and is unique in featuring a foreign military leader.

2. Naaman initially resisted Elisha’s simple instructions to wash in the Jordan River, expecting a more dramatic healing ceremony, but his obedience eventually led to his cure.

3. Naaman is one of the few Old Testament figures directly mentioned by Jesus in the New Testament, illustrating his importance as a symbol of God’s outreach to non-Israelites.