G3518

Unveiling the Word

In biblical studies, understanding the proper names mentioned in genealogical lists can provide important cultural and theological insights. One such name is Νηρί (Nēri), found in Luke 3:27 as part of Jesus’ genealogy. This name is significant not only because it ties into the genealogy of Jesus but also because it connects to broader historical and cultural narratives of the time. Nēri serves as a bridge between the Old Testament lineage and the New Testament portrayal of Jesus as the Messiah. Studying such names enriches our comprehension of both the historical and spiritual context of Scripture.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: Νηρί (Nēri), pronounced Nay-ree.

Etymology: The name Nēri is of Hebrew origin, possibly derived from the Hebrew word נֵר (Ner), meaning “lamp” or “light.” It appears in the context of genealogies, which were crucial in demonstrating lineage, particularly the royal and priestly lines that contributed to Jesus’ ancestry.

Part of Speech: Proper noun. In the context of Luke 3:27, Nēri is a proper noun referring to an individual in the genealogy of Jesus, identified as the father of Shealtiel, a key figure in the lineage of Zerubbabel, an important post-exilic leader.

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Defining Meanings

1. Biblical Genealogy: Nēri appears in Luke 3:27 as part of the genealogy of Jesus, a name in the line of David through Nathan. While little is known about the individual, the name connects to the broader story of God’s plan through the Davidic line.

2. Symbolic Meaning of “Lamp”: The etymological root of Nēri in Hebrew, meaning “lamp” or “light,” carries symbolic significance. In Scripture, a lamp often represents guidance, knowledge, and the presence of God. The name itself may have connoted spiritual leadership or guidance within the genealogical context.

Exploring Similar Words

1. Νέερ (Ner) [pronunciation: Nay-er]: A Hebrew root word related to Nēri, meaning “lamp” or “light.” This word emphasizes the connection to illumination and divine guidance, a recurring theme in biblical language.

2. Σαλαθιήλ (Shealtiel) [pronunciation: She-al-tee-el]: Another proper noun in the same genealogy, referring to the son of Nēri. Shealtiel is significant in the post-exilic context as the father of Zerubbabel, a leader during the rebuilding of the temple.

3. Ζοροβάβελ (Zerubbabel) [pronunciation: Zor-oh-bab-el]: The grandson of Nēri through Shealtiel, a key figure in the return from Babylonian exile and the rebuilding of the temple, further anchoring the name Nēri within the context of messianic expectations.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Case, Number, Gender: Nēri is a masculine singular noun in the nominative case. As a proper noun, it serves to identify a specific person in the genealogy.

Declension: As a proper name, Nēri does not follow regular declension patterns in Greek but retains its form across cases due to its usage as a personal name.

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Studying Lexicon Insights

Nēri is primarily understood as a proper name in genealogical contexts, and as such, it appears infrequently in lexicons. However, lexicons such as BDAG and LSJ note the connection of Nēri to its Hebrew root נֵר, emphasizing its meaning as “lamp” or “light.” This symbolism of light as divine guidance or illumination is important when interpreting the name within Jesus’ genealogy. In classical Greek, the name is uncommon, and its usage is mainly restricted to the biblical record.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Luke 3:27 – “The son of Joannan, the son of Rhesa, the son of Zerubbabel, the son of Shealtiel, the son of Neri [Νηρί].”

In this verse, Nēri appears as part of the genealogical lineage of Jesus, specifically as the father of Shealtiel and ancestor of Zerubbabel, continuing the Davidic line.

Analyzing Classical Usage

The name Nēri does not appear in classical Greek literature outside the biblical and post-biblical context. As such, it holds primarily a theological and genealogical significance in the Septuagint and New Testament writings.

Author Name of Work Text

N/A N/A No known classical Greek usage for this name outside of biblical texts.

Noteworthy Summary

Nēri (Νηρί) is a significant name in the genealogy of Jesus found in Luke 3:27. While little is known about the individual, the name connects the Davidic line through Nathan and plays a role in tracing the royal lineage leading to Jesus. The Hebrew origin of the name, meaning “lamp” or “light,” adds a symbolic layer to its biblical usage, representing guidance, leadership, and divine presence. Though Nēri is not prominent in classical Greek literature, its occurrence in Scripture highlights its importance in understanding the ancestral and messianic promises of the Bible.

Did You Know?

1. The name Nēri is rooted in the Hebrew word for “lamp,” symbolizing divine guidance and presence.

2. Nēri appears only once in the New Testament, in Luke’s genealogy of Jesus.

3. While Nēri is not a prominent biblical figure, his inclusion in Jesus’ lineage is part of tracing the fulfillment of the Davidic covenant.