### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma H3149, יְזַוְאֵל (Yᵉzavʼêl), is a proper noun, a personal name. Its etymology is derived from an unused root, understood to mean "to sprinkle," combined with the divine name אֵל (ʼēl), meaning "God" (`{{H410}}`). Thus, the core meaning of Yᵉzavʼêl is "sprinkled of God." This etymology suggests a connection to concepts of divine consecration, purification, or the bestowal of divine favor, as sprinkling was a significant act in ancient Near Eastern and biblical ritual. As a proper noun, its semantic range is limited to identifying a specific individual.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Yᵉzavʼêl appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, transliterated as "Jeziel" or "Jezavel" in various English translations. It is found in [[1 Chronicles 12:3]]: "Ahiezer the chief, and Joash, the sons of Shemaah the Gibeathite; and Jeziel, and Pelet, the sons of Azmaveth; and Beracah, and Jehu, the Anathothite." In this passage, Jeziel is listed among the mighty men of Benjamin who came to David at Ziklag. These individuals are described as "mighty men of valor, and helpers in the war," skilled in the use of both bow and sling. The context places Jeziel within a group of dedicated warriors who pledged their allegiance and military support to David during his time of exile, prior to his kingship over all Israel. His inclusion in this esteemed list highlights his significant role and contribution to David's growing force.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is אֵל (ʼēl, `{{H410}}`), the component signifying "God," which grounds the name in a divine relationship. This element is common in many Hebrew names (e.g., Daniel, Samuel, Israel). The implied root meaning "to sprinkle" connects Yᵉzavʼêl to a rich tapestry of biblical concepts:
* **Purification and Cleansing:** Sprinkling was central to ritual purification, whether with water (e.g., [[Numbers 8:7]], [[Ezekiel 36:25]]) or blood (e.g., [[Leviticus 4:6]], [[Leviticus 14:7]]).
* **Consecration and Dedication:** Objects and individuals were consecrated through sprinkling, setting them apart for sacred service (e.g., [[Exodus 29:21]]).
* **Covenant:** The sprinkling of blood often ratified covenants, signifying a binding relationship (e.g., [[Exodus 24:8]]).
* **Divine Blessing and Favor:** The act of sprinkling could also symbolize the outpouring of divine blessing or the impartation of the Spirit, as seen in prophetic imagery (e.g., [[Isaiah 52:15]]).
### Theological Significance
The name Yᵉzavʼêl, meaning "sprinkled of God," carries profound theological significance. It suggests a person who is divinely set apart or consecrated. In the context of Jeziel joining David's mighty men, this name could imply:
* **Divine Election and Purpose:** His very name suggests that his life and service, particularly his role as a warrior for David, were not accidental but divinely ordained or blessed. He was "sprinkled" by God for a specific purpose.
* **Divine Purity and Empowerment:** While we have no specific details about his life beyond his military service, the name evokes the idea of ritual purity and divine empowerment. His skills as an archer and slinger might be seen as gifts from God, enabling him to fulfill his role effectively.
* **God's Active Involvement in Human Affairs:** The name serves as a testament to the biblical understanding that God is intimately involved in the lives of His people, even in their naming and their callings. It underscores the concept that individuals can be divinely prepared and equipped for their tasks.
* **Anticipation of New Covenant Cleansing:** For a Christian theological perspective, the concept of being "sprinkled of God" resonates with the New Covenant promise of spiritual cleansing and regeneration (e.g., [[Hebrews 10:22]], [[1 Peter 1:2]]), where believers are purified by the blood of Christ and indwelt by the Holy Spirit.
### Summary
Yᵉzavʼêl (`{{H3149}}`) is a unique Hebrew proper noun, meaning "sprinkled of God," derived from an unused root signifying "to sprinkle" and the divine name אֵל (God). It appears once in the biblical record, identifying Jeziel, a Benjamite warrior who joined King David at Ziklag ([[1 Chronicles 12:3]]). The name's etymology links it to significant biblical themes of divine consecration, purification, and the bestowal of divine favor. Theologically, Yᵉzavʼêl signifies a person divinely chosen or set apart, highlighting God's active involvement in the lives of individuals, empowering them for their specific roles and purposes.
TRV