### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Yôwyâkîyn**, represented by `{{H3112}}`, is a form of the name of an Israelite **king**, **Jehoiachin**. It appears just **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible, where it serves as a critical historical marker.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical appearance of `{{H3112}}` is found in Ezekiel, where it is used to date a prophetic vision. The text states that the event occurred in "the fifth **year** of **king** **Jehoiachin's** **captivity**" [[Ezekiel 1:2]]. This reference firmly places the prophet's experience within the timeline of the Babylonian exile, anchoring the subsequent divine revelations to this specific period of Israel's history.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context help illuminate the setting of this name:
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (a king): This word denotes royal authority. While it is applied to **Jehoiachin** [[Ezekiel 1:2]], it is also used for the LORD, who is described as the **King** of Israel [[Isaiah 44:6]] and ultimately **king** over all the earth [[Zechariah 14:9]].
* `{{H1546}}` **gâlûwth** (captivity; concretely, exiles): This term is directly linked to Jehoiachin's state. His **captivity** is used as a benchmark for measuring time in other passages as well ([[2 Kings 25:27]], [[Jeremiah 52:31]]), signifying a defining period of national crisis.
* `{{H8141}}` **shâneh** (a year): This word for a revolution of time is used to establish timelines for historical events, such as the **year** of King Uzziah's death [[Isaiah 6:1]], and for periods of God's work [[Habakkuk 3:2]].
* `{{H2320}}` **chôdesh** (the new moon; by implication, a month): Used alongside **shâneh**, this word provides further chronological precision, marking out specific times for sacred feasts [[Leviticus 23:27]] and prophetic encounters [[Ezekiel 1:2]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H3112}}` is tied entirely to the historical context it provides for the exile.
* **A Chronological Anchor:** The name **Jehoiachin** in [[Ezekiel 1:2]] is used to establish a precise date for the start of Ezekiel's prophetic ministry. The era is defined not by a reigning king's power, but by a captured king's years in exile.
* **The Subverted Monarchy:** The phrase "**king** Jehoiachin's **captivity**" [[Ezekiel 1:2]] juxtaposes the concept of royalty with the reality of subjugation. This highlights the fall of the earthly Davidic monarchy and sets the context for God's sovereignty during a time of national defeat.
* **The Era of Captivity:** The use of Jehoiachin's captivity as a reference point underscores its importance as a pivotal event in Israel's history. The narrative counts the years from this moment, emphasizing the state of being captives as the new reality for the people of Judah [[Ezekiel 40:1]].
### Summary
In summary, **Yôwyâkîyn** `{{H3112}}` is more than just a name; it is a historical timestamp that signifies a major turning point for Israel. Its singular use in the Bible marks the beginning of a key prophetic ministry during the Babylonian exile. The name itself is inseparable from the concept of **captivity**, serving as a constant reminder of the fallen earthly kingdom and the setting in which God's divine word was delivered to his exiled people.
TRV