Naaman
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Naaman in the Bible?
A prominent Aramean military commander suffering from a skin disease who traveled to Israel to seek healing from the prophet Elisha, ultimately submitting to the prophet's instructions and acknowledging the deity of Israel.
SIGNIFICANCE
The narrative demonstrates the theological theme that divine power extends beyond national boundaries, challenging Israelite exclusivism by showing a foreign enemy recognizing Yahweh's sovereignty through a humble prophetic act rather than grand spectacle.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Naaman reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Naaman in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Naaman clarify?
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Naaman." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/naaman/