### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Israḗl**, represented by `{{G2474}}`, is a name of Hebrew origin. It appears **70 times** across **68 unique verses** and refers to the adopted name of **Jacob** `{{G2384}}`, extending to his descendants both literally and figuratively. This name serves as a central identifier for the people of God throughout the biblical narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2474}}` is used to define a specific people and their relationship with God. The term frequently appears in phrases that establish national and familial identity, such as the "house of Israel" [[Matthew 10:6]] and the "children of Israel" [[Acts 9:15]]. Jesus identifies his mission as being sent to the "lost sheep of the house of Israel" [[Matthew 15:24]]. The name is also used to form key titles, including "the God of Israel" [[Matthew 15:31]] and the anticipated "King of Israel" [[John 1:49]]. This title designates a special status, as Gentiles were considered "aliens from the commonwealth of Israel" [[Ephesians 2:12]], separate from the covenants and promises given to them.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the meaning and context of `{{G2474}}`:
* `{{G2384}}` **Iakṓb** (Jacob): As the progenitor of the Israelites, this name is the original identity behind **Israel**. The connection is explicit, as God promises to turn ungodliness away from **Jacob** `{{G2384}}` as part of the salvation of all **Israel** `{{G2474}}` [[Romans 11:26]].
* `{{G2992}}` **laós** (people): This term often appears alongside **Israel** to denote them as God's chosen community. God's covenant is with the "house of Israel" `{{G2474}}` so that they might be His **people** `{{G2992}}` [[Hebrews 8:10]], and a governor would come to rule "my **people** Israel" [[Matthew 2:6]].
* `{{G5443}}` **phylḗ** (tribe): This word defines the internal structure of Israel. The apostles are promised they will sit on thrones judging the twelve **tribes** `{{G5443}}` of **Israel** `{{G2474}}` [[Matthew 19:28]], and the sealed servants of God are numbered from these tribes [[Revelation 7:4]].
* `{{G1484}}` **éthnos** (Gentile, heathen, nation, people): This term often provides a contrast to Israel. Paul is chosen to bear Jesus' name before the **Gentiles** `{{G1484}}` and the children of **Israel** `{{G2474}}` [[Acts 9:15]]. Scripture describes a partial blindness happening to Israel until the "fulness of the **Gentiles**" comes in [[Romans 11:25]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2474}}` is significant, encapsulating key divine concepts.
* **The Covenant People:** **Israel** is the recipient of God's divine **covenant** `{{G1242}}`. God promises to make a new covenant with the "house of Israel" [[Hebrews 8:8]], placing His laws in their minds and hearts. Those outside this relationship were considered "strangers from the covenants of promise" [[Ephesians 2:12]].
* **Object of Divine Redemption:** God's plan of salvation is repeatedly directed toward **Israel**. God exalted Jesus as a **Prince** `{{G747}}` and a **Saviour** `{{G4990}}` to give **repentance** `{{G3341}}` and forgiveness of sins to **Israel** [[Acts 5:31]]. This redemptive hope is central, as seen in the belief that Jesus would have **redeemed** `{{G3084}}` **Israel** [[Luke 24:21]].
* **Literal and Figurative Identity:** The term extends beyond mere physical lineage. Scripture makes a crucial distinction, stating "they are not all Israel, which are of Israel" [[Romans 9:6]]. This idea is further seen in the phrase "the Israel of God" [[Galatians 6:16]], suggesting a spiritual body defined by faith and mercy rather than by **flesh** `{{G4561}}` alone [[1 Corinthians 10:18]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2474}}` **Israḗl** is far more than a national or ancestral name. It signifies the historical people of God, the focus of His redemptive plan and covenant promises. The term evolves from its literal connection to **Jacob** `{{G2384}}` and his descendants to encompass a figurative or spiritual "Israel of God" [[Galatians 6:16]]. It remains a cornerstone for understanding divine election, salvation history, and the identity of God's people in scripture.
TRV