### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Yabnᵉʼêl**, represented by `{{H2995}}`, means **built of God**. It appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible, where it is used as the name for two different places in Palestine. Its etymology, from the words for "built" and "God," suggests a place established by divine foundation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical appearances, `{{H2995}}` serves exclusively as a geographical landmark for defining tribal borders in the book of Joshua. In one instance, the **border** `{{H1366}}` of the tribe of Judah is described as passing **mount** `{{H2022}}` Baalah and going **out** `{{H3318}}` to **Jabneel**, with its final boundary being at the **sea** `{{H3220}}` [[Joshua 15:11]]. In the second instance, it is listed as a town on the **coast** `{{H1366}}` of Naphtali, whose territory extended to the **Jordan** `{{H3383}}` [[Joshua 19:33]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which **Yabnᵉʼêl** is found:
* `{{H1366}}` **gᵉbûwl** (border, coast): This word is used in both verses where **Jabneel** appears, highlighting its role in establishing territorial limits. God promises to enlarge these borders as a blessing [[Exodus 34:24]] and restore His people to their own **border** [[Jeremiah 31:17]].
* `{{H3318}}` **yâtsâʼ** (to go out): This verb describes the path of the border as it "went out" to **Jabneel** [[Joshua 15:11]]. It signifies a bringing forth, as when God brings His people **out** from the nations [[Ezekiel 34:13]] or when His word **goeth forth** from His mouth [[Isaiah 55:11]].
* `{{H3220}}` **yâm** (sea): This marks the end of the boundary line that includes one of the Jabneel locations [[Joshua 15:11]]. The **sea** is often used to represent a vast, divinely set boundary that cannot be passed [[Jeremiah 5:22]].
* `{{H3383}}` **Yardên** (Jordan): The outgoings of the other border that includes **Jabneel** were at the **Jordan** [[Joshua 19:33]]. Crossing the **Jordan** was a pivotal moment for Israel to possess the land God had given them [[Deuteronomy 4:26]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H2995}}` is rooted in its name and context:
* **Divine Establishment:** The name **Yabnᵉʼêl** itself, meaning "**built of God**," implies that the locations are not merely human settlements but are divinely established as part of God's plan for His people.
* **Covenantal Boundaries:** Its use in marking the **border** `{{H1366}}` of the promised land connects the name directly to God's covenant faithfulness. These markers are physical evidence of God fulfilling His promise to allot an inheritance to the tribes of Israel.
* **A God-Defined Space:** The locations named **Jabneel** function as fixed points within the larger geography of God's redemptive work. They sit within boundaries that run from the **sea** `{{H3220}}` to the **Jordan** `{{H3383}}`, framing the land where God's people were to dwell.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2995}}` **Yabnᵉʼêl** is more than a simple place name. As a term meaning "**built of God**" used to define the borders of the promised land, it serves as a powerful reminder of divine authorship and faithfulness. Its presence in scripture underscores the belief that the very land of Israel and its divisions were established and ordained by God Himself.
TRV