### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term H3139, "Yôwrâh" (יוֹרָה), functions exclusively as a proper noun, a personal name. Its meaning is derived from the root H3384 (יָרָה), which carries a primary sense of "to throw," "to cast," or "to shoot." From this root, a related noun H3385 (יוֹרֶה) emerges, specifically denoting the "early rain" or "autumn rain." This connection to rain is crucial for understanding the etymological significance of "Yôwrâh," as it is often translated as "rainy" or "early rain." While the word itself is not used descriptively in the biblical text, its etymological root evokes concepts of divine provision, fertility, and the life-giving sustenance that rain brought to an agrarian society. As a proper name, its semantic range is limited to identifying an individual, with its deeper meaning residing in its linguistic origin.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name "Jorah" (יוֹרָה), represented by H3139, appears in the Hebrew Bible in a singular instance: [[Ezra 2:18]]. In this passage, Jorah is listed as the head of a family whose descendants returned from the Babylonian exile to Judah with Zerubbabel. The verse states, "The children of Jorah, one hundred and twelve." This occurrence is part of a detailed genealogical register that meticulously enumerates the families and individuals who participated in the post-exilic return. The context is purely historical and administrative, documenting the re-establishment of the community in the land of Israel. The inclusion of Jorah's family, alongside many others, underscores the comprehensive nature of the return and the importance of lineage in the restoration of the Israelite nation. While the name itself offers no narrative details about the individual, its presence in this vital list signifies his family's participation in a pivotal moment of Israelite history.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for H3139 is its root verb, H3384 (יָרָה), which means "to throw," "to cast," or "to shoot." This versatile root also forms the basis for several important biblical terms:
* **H3385 (יוֹרֶה - yoreh):** This noun directly translates to "early rain" or "autumn rain." This is the most direct conceptual link to the name Jorah, highlighting the life-giving and foundational nature of the first rains of the season, crucial for agricultural success in ancient Israel ([[Deuteronomy 11:14]], [[Joel 2:23]]).
* **H8451 (תּוֹרָה - Torah):** Derived from the Hiphil stem of H3384, meaning "instruction" or "law." This connection emphasizes the idea of "casting forth" or "imparting" divine teaching and guidance, much like rain "pours down" to nourish.
* **Concepts of Restoration and Lineage:** Jorah's appearance in [[Ezra 2:18]] ties him directly to the overarching biblical theme of the return from exile and the meticulous preservation of Israelite genealogies. These lists were vital for establishing identity, land claims, and the continuity of the covenant people, particularly in anticipation of the Messiah's lineage.
* **Divine Provision:** The etymological link to "rain" subtly connects the name Jorah to the broader concept of God's faithful provision and blessing, as rain was a direct manifestation of divine favor and sustenance.
### Theological Significance
As a proper name, H3139 "Jorah" does not inherently possess a deep theological exposition in the biblical text. Its significance is primarily contextual and etymological. The inclusion of Jorah in the list of returnees in [[Ezra 2:18]] is theologically meaningful in several ways:
* **God's Covenant Faithfulness:** The return from exile was a profound demonstration of God's faithfulness to His covenant promises, fulfilling prophecies of restoration. Jorah's family, among others, represents the physical manifestation of this divine act.
* **Preservation of the Remnant:** The meticulous listing of families underscores God's commitment to preserving a remnant of His people, ensuring the continuity of the lineage through which His redemptive plan, culminating in the Messiah, would unfold.
* **Identity and Re-establishment:** For the post-exilic community, these genealogical records were crucial for re-establishing their identity as the people of God in the land. Every name, including Jorah, contributed to the collective identity of a people being renewed by divine grace.
* **Subtle Echoes of Blessing:** While not explicitly stated, the etymological connection of "Jorah" to "rain" (H3385) can be seen as a subtle theological echo. In a land dependent on rain, "early rain" was a symbol of God's timely blessing, provision, and the fruitfulness that follows obedience ([[Deuteronomy 11:14]]). Thus, the name might implicitly point to the divine blessing and sustenance that enabled the return and re-establishment of the community.
### Summary
H3139, "Yôwrâh" (יוֹרָה), is a proper noun identifying an Israelite whose descendants returned from the Babylonian exile. Etymologically, the name is linked to the Hebrew root for "to throw" or "to cast," specifically evoking the concept of "rainy" or "early rain" (H3385). Its sole biblical occurrence is in [[Ezra 2:18]], where "Jorah" is listed as the head of a family of 112 individuals who participated in the post-exilic return to Judah. While the name itself provides no narrative details, its presence in this crucial genealogical record underscores the divine faithfulness in preserving and restoring His covenant people. The subtle etymological connection to "rain" can be seen as an implicit reminder of God's life-giving provision and blessing, which sustained His people through exile and enabled their return to the promised land. Thus, Jorah's name, though seemingly minor, contributes to the larger biblical narrative of God's redemptive plan and the continuity of His chosen people.
TRV