### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew phrase **Yᵉhôvâh niççîy**, represented by `{{H3071}}`, is a symbolic name meaning **Jehovah (is) my banner**. It appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. This name is not a common word but a specific title given to an altar in the Desert, signifying a particular event and declaration of faith.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H3071}}` is in the book of Exodus. After a significant event, **Moses** `{{H4872}}` **built** `{{H1129}}` an **altar** `{{H4196}}` to the Lord. He then **called** `{{H7121}}` its **name** `{{H8034}}` **Jehovahnissi** `{{H3071}}`, permanently marking the location with this declaration of God as his banner [[Exodus 17:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of **Yᵉhôvâh niççîy** `{{H3071}}` is enriched by several key Hebrew words used in its only appearance:
* `{{H4872}}` **Môsheh** (Moses): The Israelite lawgiver who built the altar. He is a central figure through whom God demonstrates His presence and power [[Joshua 1:5]].
* `{{H1129}}` **bânâh** (to build): This primitive root means to build, repair, or set up. It is the action taken by Moses to erect the physical structure [[Exodus 17:15]], and is also used figuratively, as when the LORD promises to **build** a house [[Psalms 127:1]].
* `{{H4196}}` **mizbêach** (an altar): The physical structure that was named. An **altar** served as a place for sacrifice and a memorial where God's name was recorded [[Exodus 20:24]].
* `{{H7121}}` **qârâʼ** (to call): This word means to call out to, to name, or to proclaim. By naming the altar, Moses made a public proclamation of God's character [[Isaiah 9:6]].
* `{{H8034}}` **shêm** (an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality): A **name** in scripture often represents a person's character, authority, or fame. Giving the altar this **name** defined its purpose and memorialized God's action [[Psalms 23:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3071}}` is centered on its function as a memorial name for an altar.
* **A Declaration of God's Character:** By naming the altar "Jehovah is my banner," **Moses** `{{H4872}}` makes a public statement about God's role as the rallying point and standard for His people. A **name** `{{H8034}}` is used to reflect character and authority, and in this case, it declares God's active presence [[Isaiah 57:15]].
* **A Point of Remembrance:** An **altar** `{{H4196}}` is a place where God's **name** `{{H8034}}` is recorded and remembered [[Exodus 20:24]]. The creation of Jehovah-nissi serves as a permanent testimony for future generations.
* **A Call to Allegiance:** A banner is a symbol under which people gather. **Calling** `{{H7121}}` the altar by this **name** `{{H8034}}` is a call to allegiance, identifying the LORD as the source of victory and identity for the people of Israel [[Zechariah 13:9]].
### Summary
In summary, **Yᵉhôvâh niççîy** `{{H3071}}` is more than just a place name; it is a profound theological declaration encapsulated in a single phrase. Although it appears only once, its meaning, "Jehovah (is) my banner," is established through the deliberate act of **Moses** `{{H4872}}` **building** `{{H1129}}` an **altar** `{{H4196}}` and giving it this specific **name** `{{H8034}}`. It illustrates how a physical object can be imbued with spiritual significance, serving as a lasting memorial to God's character and His relationship with His people.
TRV