from גָּאַל; avenger; Jigal, the name of three Israelites; Igal, Igeal.
Transliteration:Yigʼâl
Pronunciation:yig-awl'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H3008}}` (Yigʼâl) is a proper noun, a personal name, derived directly from the verb `{{H1350}}` (ga'al). The root `{{H1350}}` carries a rich semantic range, primarily encompassing the concepts of "to redeem," "to buy back," "to act as a kinsman-redeemer," and "to avenge." As a name, Yigʼâl is understood to mean "He will redeem" or "He will avenge," reflecting the active role implied by the root verb. The base definition provided for `{{H3008}}` specifically highlights "avenger" as its core meaning, pointing to a divine or human agent who intervenes to restore justice or reclaim what is lost. This name, therefore, intrinsically links its bearer to the powerful actions of redemption or retribution inherent in the ga'al concept.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Yigʼâl appears for three distinct individuals in the Hebrew Bible, each instance offering a unique contextual backdrop:
1. **Yigal son of Joseph (Tribe of Issachar):** Mentioned in [[Numbers 13:6]], Yigal is one of the twelve spies sent by Moses to scout the land of Canaan. His inclusion among the tribal leaders chosen for this crucial mission underscores his standing within the community. However, he is part of the ten spies who brought back a disheartening report, leading to the Israelites' forty years of wandering in the wilderness [[Numbers 13:31-33]]. The meaning of his name, "He will redeem" or "Avenger," stands in poignant contrast to the lack of faith and courage demonstrated by him and his companions, which ultimately delayed Israel's redemption into the Promised Land.
2. **Igal, a descendant of David:** Found in the royal genealogy of David's line in [[1 Chronicles 3:22]], Igal is listed as a son of Shemaiah and a descendant of Zerubbabel. His presence in this lineage emphasizes the continuity of the Davidic dynasty through the post-exilic period. While no specific actions are attributed to him, his inclusion in this vital genealogical record signifies his role in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan for the Davidic covenant and the eventual Messiah.
3. **Igal son of Nathan of Zobah:** This individual is listed among David's mighty men in [[2 Samuel 23:36]] (also appearing as Igeal in [[1 Chronicles 11:38]]). As one of the elite warriors who served King David, Igal would have been instrumental in defending Israel and executing the king's justice, thereby participating in the 'avenging' or 'redeeming' of the nation from its enemies. His presence in this esteemed list highlights his strength and loyalty, aligning with the dynamic implications of his name.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word to `{{H3008}}` is its root verb, `{{H1350}}` (ga'al). This verb is foundational to understanding several key biblical concepts:
* **Kinsman-Redeemer (Go'el):** The noun form of `{{H1350}}`, *go'el*, describes a close relative (kinsman) who has the right and responsibility to act on behalf of another family member. This role includes redeeming family land that has been sold [[Leviticus 25:25]], buying back a family member sold into slavery [[Leviticus 25:48]], marrying a childless widow to raise an heir (levirate marriage, though not strictly *ga'al* but related to family continuity, as seen in the Book of Ruth), and avenging the blood of a murdered relative [[Numbers 35:19]]. The story of Ruth and Boaz provides the most vivid illustration of the *go'el* in action [[Ruth 4:1-10]].
* **Redemption:** The concept of redemption, *ge'ullah*, is central to Israel's identity, especially their deliverance from Egyptian bondage [[Exodus 6:6]]. It speaks of God's active intervention to liberate, restore, and claim His people as His own.
* **Vengeance/Justice:** While "avenger" might have negative connotations in modern English, in the biblical context of `{{H1350}}`, it often refers to the righteous execution of justice, particularly in cases of bloodshed or oppression. It is not about personal spite but the restoration of divine order.
These concepts are intricately woven together, illustrating the multifaceted nature of the *go'el*'s role and, by extension, the meaning embedded in the name Yigʼâl.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H3008}}` is primarily derived from its root, `{{H1350}}`, and its profound implications for understanding God's character and actions. God is frequently presented as the ultimate *Go'el* of Israel.
* **God as Redeemer:** The Lord is the supreme Kinsman-Redeemer who acts to redeem His people from various forms of bondage—from slavery in Egypt [[Exodus 6:6]], from exile [[Isaiah 43:1]], and from sin. This divine redemption is an act of sovereign love and faithfulness to His covenant. The name Yigʼâl, meaning "He will redeem," inherently points to this divine attribute.
* **God as Avenger/Upholder of Justice:** In His role as *Go'el*, God also acts as the righteous Avenger, bringing justice against those who oppress His people or violate His moral order [[Psalm 94:1]]. This is not a vengeful act in a human sense, but a necessary restoration of righteousness and a demonstration of His sovereignty over all creation.
* **Messianic Foreshadowing:** The concept of the *go'el* finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of the Messiah. Jesus Christ is the ultimate Redeemer, who through His sacrifice, bought humanity back from the bondage of sin and death, paying the ultimate price. He also embodies divine justice, bringing about the final restoration and judgment. The name Yigʼâl, therefore, subtly foreshadows the redemptive and avenging work of the coming King.
* **Human Responsibility:** While the name points to divine action, the individuals bearing the name Yigʼâl also highlight human responsibility within God's plan. Whether failing in faith (the spy) or serving diligently (David's mighty man), their lives unfold within the larger narrative of God's redemptive history.
### Summary
`{{H3008}}` (Yigʼâl) is a Hebrew proper noun, a personal name meaning "He will redeem" or "Avenger," directly derived from the verb `{{H1350}}` (ga'al). This root verb signifies the multifaceted role of a kinsman-redeemer who acts to reclaim, restore, and avenge. Three distinct individuals bear this name in the biblical text: Yigal the spy, Igal the descendant of David, and Igal one of David's mighty men. While their individual stories vary, the name itself consistently points to the profound theological concepts of redemption and divine justice. Ultimately, the significance of Yigʼâl transcends the individual bearers, serving as a powerful linguistic reminder of God's character as the faithful Redeemer and righteous Avenger of His people, a role most perfectly fulfilled in the person of the Messiah.
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