### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Yâʼîyr**, represented by `{{H2971}}`, means **enlightener**. It is the name given to four Israelites in the scriptures, appearing **9 times** across **9 unique verses**. The name is primarily associated with individuals who were leaders and the territories they possessed.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2971}}` identifies several individuals. The most prominent is **Yâʼîyr**, a son of Manasseh, who took `{{H3920}}` small towns `{{H2333}}` in Gilead and called `{{H7121}}` them Havothjair [[Numbers 32:41]]. This act of conquest and naming is also recorded in Deuteronomy, where he took `{{H3947}}` the country of Argob `{{H709}}` and called it Bashanhavothjair [[Deuteronomy 3:14]]. Another significant figure is **Yâʼîyr** the Gileadite, who judged `{{H8199}}` Israel for twenty-two years [[Judges 10:3]]. The name also appears in genealogies, such as in the lineage of Mordecai, who was the son of **Jair** [[Esther 2:5]], and a son of Segub who possessed cities in Gilead [[1 Chronicles 2:22]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and significance of the individuals named **Yâʼîyr**:
* `{{H2334}}` **Chavvôwth Yâʻîyr** (hamlets of Jair): This compound name directly refers to the towns associated with **Yâʼîyr**. These are described as thirty cities in the land of Gilead which belonged to the sons of Jair the judge [[Judges 10:4]].
* `{{H1568}}` **Gilʻâd** (Gilead): This region east of the Jordan is intrinsically linked to two figures named **Yâʼîyr**. One is identified as a judge from Gilead [[Judges 10:3]], and another is recorded as having twenty-three cities in the land of Gilead [[1 Chronicles 2:22]].
* `{{H8199}}` **shâphaṭ** (to judge): This verb describes the primary role of **Yâʼîyr** the Gileadite, who judged `{{H8199}}` Israel for twenty-two years, marking his period of leadership [[Judges 10:3]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (son): This word is crucial for establishing the lineage of the different men named **Yâʼîyr**, such as his identity as the **son** of Manasseh [[Numbers 32:41]] or in tracing the ancestry of Mordecai, the **son** of Jair [[Esther 2:5]].
### Theological Significance
The name **Yâʼîyr** carries narrative weight through the actions of the individuals who bore it:
* **Land and Inheritance:** The figure of **Yâʼîyr** son of Manasseh is central to the theme of Israel's territorial inheritance. His conquest of towns and the region `{{H2256}}` of Argob `{{H709}}` demonstrates the fulfillment of promises regarding the land [[Deuteronomy 3:14]]. The "towns of Jair" become a recognized part of Israel's territory [[Joshua 13:30]].
* **Leadership and Judgment:** As one of Israel's judges, **Yâʼîyr** the Gileadite represents a key period of leadership. His twenty-two-year rule signifies a time of divinely appointed governance before the establishment of the monarchy [[Judges 10:3]].
* **Enduring Legacy:** A significant act associated with **Yâʼîyr** is naming the conquered lands after himself, creating Havothjair `{{H2334}}`, the "hamlets of Jair" [[Numbers 32:41]]. This establishes a lasting legacy, with the name enduring "unto this day" [[Deuteronomy 3:14]], linking the person to the geography of Israel.
* **Genealogical Connection:** The inclusion of **Yâʼîyr** in the lineage of Mordecai connects the story of Esther to the established tribes of Israel. It grounds the narrative within the history of the Benjamites and the Jewish people [[Esther 2:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2971}}` **Yâʼîyr** is more than just a name; it represents key figures in Israel's history. From the conqueror who took possession of lands in Bashan and Gilead to the judge who governed the nation, the name is associated with leadership and the establishment of an inheritance. The legacy of **Yâʼîyr** is permanently etched into the geography of Israel through the "towns of Jair," illustrating how an individual's actions can define a place and its history for generations. The name serves as a marker of lineage, authority, and permanence within the biblical account.
TRV