perhaps from an unused root (meaning to draw up); he will draw out; Jizliah, an Israelite; Jezliah.
Transliteration:Yizlîyʼâh
Pronunciation:yiz-lee-aw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew proper noun יִזְלִיאָה (Yizlîyʼâh), transliterated as Jezliah or Jizliah, is derived from an unused root, the proposed meaning of which is "to draw up" or "to draw out." The name itself is interpreted as "he will draw out," suggesting an active process of extraction, pulling forth, or perhaps even deliverance. As a personal name, its semantic range is primarily confined to this etymological meaning, pointing to a characteristic or action associated with the individual or, more likely, with divine agency.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Yizlîyʼâh (Jezliah) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the genealogical records of the tribe of Benjamin: [[1 Chronicles 8:18]]. In this verse, Jezliah is listed as one of the sons of Elpaal, alongside Ishmerai and Jobab. The broader context of [[1 Chronicles 8]] details the lineage of Benjamin, emphasizing the heads of fathers' houses, their dwelling places, and their prowess as mighty men of valor. Jezliah is presented as a direct descendant within this significant tribal lineage, though no specific narrative or action is attributed to him. His inclusion in this meticulously preserved genealogy underscores the importance of tribal identity and the continuity of the Israelite family lines in the post-exilic period, as recorded by the Chronicler.
### Related Words & Concepts
While the specific root for יִזְלִיאָה (Yizlîyʼâh) is noted as "unused," the conceptual meaning "to draw out" or "to draw up" resonates with broader biblical themes. This concept can be found in various contexts, such as drawing water from a well (e.g., `{{H7579}}` for *sha'av*, "to draw water"), drawing a sword from its sheath, or metaphorically drawing a person out of distress or danger. The idea of divine "drawing out" is central to the Exodus narrative, where God draws His people out of slavery (e.g., `{{H3318}}` for *yatsa*, "to go out/bring out"). Although not a direct linguistic cognate, the theological concept of God's sovereign act of bringing forth, selecting, or delivering individuals and communities is a pervasive theme related to the implied meaning of this name.
### Theological Significance
Despite its singular occurrence and lack of narrative detail, the name יִזְלִיאָה (Yizlîyʼâh), meaning "he will draw out," carries implicit theological weight. In a biblical worldview, personal names often bear prophetic or descriptive significance, reflecting divine character or human destiny. The meaning "he will draw out" can be understood as a testament to God's providential hand in the lives of individuals and the nation of Israel. It subtly points to God as the one who "draws out" His chosen people from various circumstances, whether from obscurity, danger, or even the general populace, to fulfill His purposes. The inclusion of Jezliah in a sacred genealogy further affirms God's meticulous attention to every thread in the tapestry of redemptive history, ensuring the preservation of the lines through which His covenant promises would be fulfilled, ultimately leading to the Messiah.
### Summary
The Hebrew name יִזְלִיאָה (Yizlîyʼâh), or Jezliah, is a proper noun meaning "he will draw out," derived from an unused root signifying extraction or deliverance. It appears only once in the biblical record, in [[1 Chronicles 8:18]], where it identifies a son of Elpaal within the detailed genealogy of the tribe of Benjamin. While lacking narrative context, its etymological meaning subtly points to the divine attribute of "drawing out"—whether in the sense of bringing forth, selecting, or delivering. As part of a divinely preserved lineage, Jezliah's name, like all names in the biblical genealogies, underscores God's sovereign oversight and meticulous plan in the unfolding of His covenant history.
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