### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Yᵉhôwçêph**, represented by `{{H3084}}`, is a fuller form of the name Joseph. As a proper noun, its definition is specifically tied to Joseph, a son of Jacob. This particular form of the name is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The singular appearance of `{{H3084}}` is found in [[Psalms 81:5]], which states that God "ordained in **Joseph** for a testimony, when he went out through the land of Egypt." In this context, the name is used to represent the people of Israel. The verse establishes a direct link between Joseph, as a representative of the tribes, and a divine "testimony" (`{{H5715}}`) that was set in place during the foundational event of the Exodus from **Egypt** (`{{H4714}}`). The passage also notes an experience of encountering an unknown **language** (`{{H8193}}`), framing the deliverance as a moment of profound and unfamiliar divine intervention.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its single-use context in [[Psalms 81:5]] illuminate its meaning:
* `{{H5715}}` **ʻêdûwth** (testimony): This refers to a witness or testimony. The ordinance in Joseph was established for this purpose, highlighting an enduring divine truth or covenant.
* `{{H3318}}` **yâtsâʼ** (to go out): A primitive root with a wide range of meanings, here it signifies the act of departure or being brought forth, specifically referring to Israel's exodus from Egypt.
* `{{H4714}}` **Mitsrayim** (Egypt): The name for Egypt, representing the land of bondage from which God delivered His people. The context of deliverance from **Egypt** is central to this word's meaning [[Exodus 13:3]].
* `{{H3045}}` **yâdaʻ** (to know): This word means to know or understand. In the verse, it describes a lack of understanding of a foreign language, emphasizing the alien nature of the experience in Egypt.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3084}}` is derived entirely from its unique placement in scripture.
* **An Enduring Testimony:** The name **Yᵉhôwçêph** is directly tied to an ordinance from God that serves as a **testimony** (`{{H5715}}`). This connects the identity of God's people to His revealed and sure word, which is described as an eternal heritage [[Psalms 119:111]] and a source of wisdom [[Psalms 19:7]].
* **A Memorial of Deliverance:** The event is anchored to when Joseph, representing Israel, "went out through the land of **Egypt**" (`{{H4714}}`). This act of "going out" (`{{H3318}}`) is the cornerstone of Israel's redemptive history, a powerful display of God's salvation that is to be remembered [[Exodus 13:3]].
* **Divine Action:** The testimony was "ordained" or **put** (`{{H7760}}`) in place by God Himself. This emphasizes God's sovereign hand in establishing memorials and reminders of His covenant-keeping character, as He did when He promised to **put** (`{{H7760}}`) His words in the mouths of His people [[Isaiah 59:21]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3084}}` is a unique variant of the name Joseph whose sole biblical appearance carries significant weight. Used in [[Psalms 81:5]], it functions as a poetic representation of Israel. The word serves to connect the people of God to a lasting testimony that was divinely ordained during the deliverance from Egypt. Its rarity underscores the specific and profound nature of this historical and theological event.
TRV