### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Yᵉhûwdîy**, represented by `{{H3064}}`, is a term derived patronymically from `{{H3063}}` **Yᵉhûwdâh**. It functions as a specific identifier for a **Jehudite**, a descendant of Judah, or more broadly, a **Jew**. Appearing **76 times** across **70 unique verses**, its usage is particularly concentrated in narratives of identity, conflict, and community preservation during the exile and post-exilic periods.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3064}}` is used to define a people marked for both persecution and divine deliverance. The book of Esther features the term prominently, where Mordecai's identity as a **Jew{H3064}** [[Esther 3:4]] is the catalyst for Haman's plot to **destroy{H8045}**, **kill{H2026}**, and **cause to perish{H6}** all **Jews{H3064}** throughout the kingdom ([[Esther 3:6]], 3:13). Conversely, the term is also used to signify their salvation, as a royal **decree{H1881}** is issued granting the **Jews{H3064}** the right to defend themselves, turning their mourning into **joy{H8057}** and a **good{H2896} day{H3117}** ([[Esther 8:11]], 8:17). The prophetic hope associated with this identity is highlighted in Zechariah, where ten men from all **nations{H1471}** will take hold of a **Jew{H3064}**, recognizing that God is with them [[Zechariah 8:23]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide deeper context for the identity of a **Yᵉhûwdîy**:
* `{{H3063}}` **Yᵉhûwdâh** (Judah): As the root word, it establishes the tribal and territorial origin. The return of the **Jews{H3064}** from various countries is a return to the land of **Judah{H3063}** [[Jeremiah 40:12]].
* `{{H1471}}` **gôwy** (nation, Gentile, heathen): This word often defines the "other" in contrast to the **Jews{H3064}**. Nehemiah speaks of redeeming Jewish brethren sold to the **heathen{H1471}** [[Nehemiah 5:8]], and reports among the **heathen{H1471}** are a source of concern [[Nehemiah 6:6]].
* `{{H251}}` **ʼâch** (brother): This term emphasizes the internal kinship and communal bond among the Jewish people. The law forbids a **Jew{H3064}** from enslaving his **brother{H251}** [[Jeremiah 34:9]], and Mordecai is described as being accepted by the multitude of his **brethren{H251}** [[Esther 10:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3064}}` is demonstrated through several key themes:
* **Corporate Identity and Persecution:** The term defines a people who are collectively targeted. Haman's hatred for Mordecai the **Jew{H3064}** expands into a plot against "all the **Jews{H3064}**" [[Esther 3:6]]. This shows how individual identity is tied to the fate of the entire group.
* **Divine Preservation:** Despite existential threats, the **Jews{H3064}** are preserved by divine intervention. When Esther warns Mordecai that approaching the king is against the **law{H1881}** and could mean death, he expresses faith that deliverance will arise for the **Jews{H3064}** ([[Esther 4:14]], 4:16). The reversal of their fate leads to the "fear **of the Jews{H3064}**" **falling{H5307}** upon their neighbors [[Esther 8:17]].
* **Prophetic Destiny:** The identity of a **Jew{H3064}** carries future significance. Mordecai the **Jew{H3064}** rises to a position of power, **seeking{H1875}** the **wealth{H2896}** of his **people{H5971}** and **speaking{H1696}** peace to all his **seed{H2233}** [[Esther 10:3]], prefiguring a time of restoration and blessing.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3064}}` **Yᵉhûwdîy** is far more than an ethnic descriptor. It is a term loaded with theological significance, representing a distinct people bound by lineage to **Judah{H3063}**. It is at the center of profound biblical narratives about collective persecution, miraculous deliverance, and the steadfastness of God's covenant with His people, ultimately pointing toward a future where this identity is a beacon of God's presence to the **nations{H1471}**.
TRV