### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Ἰακώβ (Iakṓb)**, represented by `{{G2384}}`, is the name **Jacob**. It is of Hebrew origin and refers to the progenitor of the Israelites. This name appears **27 times** across **25 unique verses** in the Bible, highlighting its importance in tracing the lineage of the Israelite people.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2384}}` is used in several key contexts. It most frequently appears as part of the patriarchal trio, establishing God's covenantal relationship with his people, as in the declaration, "I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of **Jacob**" [[Matthew 22:32]]. The name is crucial in genealogies, tracing the lineage from the patriarchs to Jesus Christ ([[Matthew 1:2]], [[Matthew 1:16]]). It also refers to the entire nation of Israel, as in the prophecy that a king would "reign over the house of **Jacob** for ever" [[Luke 1:33]] and that the Deliverer would "turn away ungodliness from **Jacob**" [[Romans 11:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the role and identity of **Jacob**:
* `{{G11}}` **Abraám** (Abraham, the Hebrew patriarch): As Jacob's grandfather, his name is often cited alongside Isaac and **Jacob** to establish the foundation of God's covenant with Israel [[Matthew 8:11]].
* `{{G2464}}` **Isaák** (Isaac, the son of Abraham): As Jacob's father, he is the direct link in the patriarchal line. By faith, **Isaac** blessed **Jacob** concerning things to come [[Hebrews 11:20]].
* `{{G2269}}` **Ēsaû** (Esau, an Edomite): Jacob's brother, often presented in contrast to him, as seen in the statement, "**Jacob** have I loved, but **Esau** have I hated" [[Romans 9:13]].
* `{{G3966}}` **patriárchēs** (a progenitor ("patriarch")): This term describes the role of Jacob as the father of the **twelve patriarchs**, who became the heads of the tribes of Israel [[Acts 7:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2384}}` is significant, centering on themes of covenant, election, and salvation history.
* **Covenant Headship:** The name **Jacob** is integral to the patriarchal formula "Abraham, Isaac, and **Jacob**," which confirms the continuity of God's covenant promise. God identifies Himself as their God, signifying that he is the God of the **living**, not the dead [[Matthew 22:32]].
* **Divine Election:** The choice of **Jacob** over his brother Esau highlights God's sovereign will, as it is written, "**Jacob** have I loved, but Esau have I hated" [[Romans 9:13]].
* **National and Spiritual Identity:** **Jacob** represents not only the individual patriarch but also his descendants, the nation of Israel. Prophecies speak of a messianic king reigning over the "house of **Jacob**" [[Luke 1:33]] and a Deliverer coming from Sion to turn away ungodliness from **Jacob** [[Romans 11:26]].
* **Example of Faith:** **Jacob** is presented as an example of faith, who "when he was a dying, blessed both the sons of Joseph; and worshipped" [[Hebrews 11:21]]. He is also described as one of the heirs of the same promise alongside Abraham and Isaac [[Hebrews 11:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2384}}` **Iakṓb** is a cornerstone name in scripture, representing a pivotal patriarch and the nation of Israel that descended from him. His story and lineage are essential for understanding the biblical themes of divine covenant, sovereign election, and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. The name **Jacob** serves as a constant reminder of God's faithfulness to his promises, from the patriarchs of old to the coming of the promised Messiah.
TRV